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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Patent applications
Patent application numberTitlePublished
20120028817Methods and Kits for Genome-Wide Methylation of GpC Sites and Genome-Wide Determination of Chromatin Structure - Disclosed are methods and kits for genome-wide methylation of GpC sites and for genome-wide chromatin structural determination. Specifically, the methods and kits of the present invention make possible the simultaneous determination of endogenous DNA methylation state and chromatin architecture across the entire genome.02-02-2012
20120025997SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FAILURE PREDICTION FOR ROD PUMP ARTIFICIAL LIFT SYSTEMS - A computer-implemented reservoir prediction system, method, and software are provided for failure prediction for artificial lift well systems, such as sucker rod pump systems. The method includes providing well data from a production well. Attributes are extracted from the well data. Data mining is applied to the attributes to determine whether the production well is predicted to fail within a given time period. An alert is output indicative of impending production well failures.02-02-2012
20120014289Distributed Transforms for Efficient Data Gathering in Sensor Networks - Devices, systems, and techniques for data collecting network such as wireless sensors are disclosed. A described technique includes detecting one or more remote nodes included in the wireless sensor network using a local power level that controls a radio range of the local node. The technique includes transmitting a local outdegree. The local outdegree can be based on a quantity of the one or more remote nodes. The technique includes receiving one or more remote outdegrees from the one or more remote nodes. The technique includes determining a local node type of the local node based on detecting a node type of the one or more remote nodes, using the one or more remote outdegrees, and using the local outdegree. The technique includes adjusting characteristics, including an energy usage characteristic and a data compression characteristic, of the wireless sensor network by selectively modifying the local power level and selectively changing the local node type.01-19-2012
20120004398Method for Uses of Protein Precursors as Prodrugs - The present invention provides compositions useful as prodrugs and methods for making the same. The compositions include a fusion protein having a first delivery domain and a second protein precursor domain linked together via a linker sequence. The delivery domain is a protein capable of facilitating entry to a target cells via the endocytotic pathway, such as transferrin. The protein precursor is a prohormone or a profactor, such as proinsulin. Methods of this invention include the steps of selecting a protein suitable as the delivery domain, constructing a vector to encode the fusion protein, and expressing the fusion protein in a suitable expression host.01-05-2012
20110318837METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR INDUCING APOPTOSIS BY STIMULATING ER STRESS - The present invention provides a method for inducing apoptosis in selected cells by aggravating ER-stress. The aggravation of ER-stress is achieved in a specific manner by inhibiting SERCA (sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase), leading to elevated level of cytoplasmic calcium concentration, yet without inhibiting the activity of COX-2 (cyclooxygenase-2) or triggering the release of histamine. Induction of apoptosis may be enhanced by first inducing or further aggravating ER-stress through inhibition of proteasome or proteases. Also provided are compounds and compositions useful as ER-stress aggravating agents, methods for screening, selecting, identifying and designing the same and methods for treating diseased conditions by inducing apoptosis through specific and selective aggravation of ER-stress.12-29-2011
20110311874Silicon-Carbon Nanostructured Electrodes - Hybrid silicon-carbon nanostructured electrodes are fabricated by forming a suspension including carbon nanostructures and a fluid, disposing the suspension on a substrate, removing at least some of the fluid from the suspension to form a carbon nanostructure layer on the substrate, and sputtering a layer of silicon over the carbon nanostructure layer to form the hybrid silicon-carbon nanostructured electrode. Sputtering the layer of silicon facilitates fabrication of large dimension electrodes at room temperature. The hybrid silicon-carbon nanostructured electrode may be used as an anode in a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium ion battery.12-22-2011
20110309306Fabrication of Silicon Nanowires - Nanowires are formed in a process including fluidized bed catalytic vapor deposition. The process may include contacting a gas-phase precursor including a metal or a semiconductor with a catalyst in a reaction chamber under conditions suitable for growth of nanowires including the metal or the semiconductor. The reaction chamber includes a support. The support can be, for example, a particulate support or a product vessel in the fluidized bed reactor. Nanowires are formed on the support in response to interaction between the gas-phase precursor and the catalyst. The nanowire-laden support is removed from the reaction chamber, and the nanowires are separated from the support. An anode or a lithium-ion battery may include nanowires formed in a fluidized bed reactor.12-22-2011
20110304955Fabrication of electrochemical capacitors based on inkjet printing - An electrochemical capacitor includes a first electrode including a first flexible substrate, a second electrode including a second flexible substrate, and an electrolyte. The first electrode includes a first layer of single-walled carbon nanotubes inkjetted on the first flexible substrate and a layer of first nanowires disposed on the first layer of single-walled carbon nanotubes. The second electrode includes a second layer of single-walled carbon nanotubes inkjetted on the second flexible substrate and a layer of second nanowires disposed on the second layer of single-walled carbon nanotubes. The electrolyte is sandwiched between the layer of first nanowires and the layer of second nanowires to form the electrochemical capacitor. A flexible energy storage device includes a first flexible substrate, a second flexible substrate, and one or more electrochemical capacitors formed between the first flexible substrate and the second flexible substrate. The flexible energy storage device can be wearable.12-15-2011
20110304953Nanostructured thin-film electrochemical capacitors - An asymmetric electrochemical capacitor including an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte between the anode and the cathode. The anode includes manganese dioxide (MnO12-15-2011
20110303016FLEXIBLE POLYMER-BASED ENCAPSULATED-FLUID DEVICES - Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to MEMS-based medical devices including a flexible housing that forms a chamber for encapsulating a fluid or liquid. The devices also include encapsulated electrodes, portions of which are exposed to the fluid or liquid within the chamber for sensing and/or physical actuation (controlled movement). Such medical devices can function specifically as: contact force sensors; and/or out-of-plane actuators. Device function is enabled by the encapsulation of liquid within the microchamber. Depending on the kind of electrical input applied, the encapsulated electrodes can function as electrochemical sensing elements; and/or electrolytic generation electrodes. Devices according to the present disclosure can have a fluidic coupling to the external environment or can be isolated. Fluidic isolation from the surrounding environment can be accomplished by the inclusion of an annular-plate stiction valve within the device. Related methods of use and fabrication are also described.12-15-2011
20110301090SKIN WOUND HEALING COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - A wound healing composition comprising an amount of heat shock protein effective to promote wound healing and a method thereof to apply the composition. A preferred heat shock protein is either full-length hsp90α or the middle domain plus the charged sequence of hsp90α. The composition is topically applied to skin wounds, covering the outer surface of the wound. The heat shock protein acts by promoting migration of both human epidermal keratinocyte and dermal fibroblasts to the wound in order to close, heal, and remodel the wound.12-08-2011
20110300579METHOD OF EXPRESSING PROTEINS WITH DISULFIDE BRIDGES WITH ENHANCED YIELDS AND ACTIVITY - Provided herein are methods for expressing proteins with disulfide bridges such as Vicrostatin (VCN), a chimeric variant of native snake venom disintegrin Contortrostatin (CN). The methods include what is believed to be a more efficient natural selection process that results in generating increased amounts of correctly-folded active conformers of proteins with disulfide bridges. In an aspect, this is achieved by growing Origami B cells in a more optimal redox environment during the induction of heterologous recombinant protein production.12-08-2011
20110288269Design of Spacers To Increase The Expression of Recombinant Fusion Proteins - The present invention relates to fusion proteins. The invention specifically relates to compositions and methods of Tf-based fusion proteins that demonstrate a high-level expression of transferrin (Tf)-based fusion proteins by inserting a helical linker between two protein domains.11-24-2011
20110287959PAN-ANTIBODY ASSAYS - PRINCIPLES, METHODS, AND DEVICES - The present invention includes methods, assays, and devices for assaying a sample to detect the presence, absence, or level of at least one analyte in a biological sample using a pan-antibody panel or multiplexed immunoassay, wherein at least one analyte is detected by two or more antibodies. Certain embodiments include the use of a microfluidic device in the immunoassay. Further embodiments of the invention include assays, methods, and devices to detect the presence, absence, or level of at least one analyte which is determined for a diagnostic or a scientific purpose. Still further embodiments of the invention include assays, methods, and devices to detect the presence, absence, or level of at least one analyte which is indicative of a condition or disease. Yet further embodiments of the invention include incorporating additional diagnostic techniques (e.g., PCR, RT-PCR, and DNA hybridization arrays) to the assays, device, and methods.11-24-2011
20110287947Tethered Conformation Capture - Disclosed are methods and systems for determining the three-dimensional structure of chromatin in eukaryotic cells. More specifically, disclosed are methods and systems for obtaining chromatin structural information by surface immobilization, i.e tethering crosslinked protein:DNA complexes and/or ligated DNA complexes to media such as beads, gels, and or matrices during the conformation capture assay. In general, the method includes contacting a cell with a cross-linking reagent to cross-link DNA and protein in the cell; lysing the cell, producing cross-linked protein:DNA complexes by cutting the chromatin using a chemical, physical or enzymatic method, substantially immobilizing the cross-linked protein:DNA complexes, ligating the cross-linked protein:DNA complexes intramolecularly such that the ligated protein:DNA complexes represent structural organization of the chromatin; characterizing the ligated DNA by sequencing or other methods; and identifying any structural organization of the chromatin. The structural organization preferably includes information relating to interacting loci of the chromatin.11-24-2011
20110283371Stem Cell Modified Animal Model for Aging-Related Degenerations, Stem Cell Based Methods and Compositions for Extending Lifespan and Treating SLE-Like Autoimmune Diseases - This invention discloses a stem cell modified animal model useful as a research tool for investigating aging-related degeneration processes and treatments. The animal model is preferably a rodent subcutaneously transplanted with a mesenchymal stem cell capable of generating a functional bone or marrow element. Also provided are a method for extending the lifespan and improving the quality of life of a subject by subcutaneously transplanting a plurality of mesenchymal stem cells to the subject, wherein the mesenchymal stem cells are capable of generating a functional bone or marrow element. Compositions and source of stem cells suitable for use with the methods of this invention, including stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED), are also disclosed. Further disclosed is a method for identifying progenitor bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, and a method for treating SLE-like autoimmune diseases by infusion of mesenchymal stem cells.11-17-2011
20110275674Small Molecules Modulator of Epigenetic Regulation and Their Therapeutic Applications - Disclosed are methods and compositions for modulating the function of transcription factors, especially transcription factors that recruit epigenetic regulators (histone modifying enzymes) to specific DNA promoters. The targeted transcription factors include but are not limited to the myocyte enhancing factor (MEF2), the forkhead/winged helix transcription factor FOXP3 and the transcription factor GATA3. Also disclosed are small molecule modulators of MEF2 and its associated factors that include but not limited to histone deacetylases (HDACs), p300/CBP and Cabin1 and the therapeutic applications thereof.11-10-2011
20110275646Novel Compounds for Treatment of Cancer and Disorders Associated with Angiogenesis Function - Novel compounds for treatment of cancer and disorders associated with angiogenesis function. Also disclosed are a method of preparing the compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and packaged products containing the compounds, a method of using these molecules to treat cancer (e.g., leukemia, non-small cell lung cancer, colon cancer, CNS cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, renal cancer, and prostate cancer) and disorders associated with angiogenesis function (e.g., age-related macular degeneration, macular dystrophy, and diabetes), a method of monitoring the treatment, a method of profiling gene expression, and a method of modulating gene expression.11-10-2011
20110275544MICROFLUIDIC INTEGRATION WITH NANOSENSOR PLATFORM - The present invention describes microfluidics being employed to achieve multiplex surface functionalization of nanosensor chips by selectively delivering probe molecules to individual nanosensors in an array, and microfluidics being employed to achieve delivery of a solution containing multiple analytes over individual nanosensors in an array, where each nanosensor was previously configured with a specific capture molecule.11-10-2011
20110275120Fusion Proteins With Cleavable Spacers and Uses Thereof - A polypeptide comprising a first protein domain, a second protein domain, and a dithiocyclopeptide spacer containing at least one protease cleavage site, wherein the dithiocyclopeptide is exogenous relative to the first or second protein domain, and wherein the first and second protein domains are operably linked by the dithiocyclopeptide. Also disclosed are methods of producing the polypeptide and delivering the protein domains into a cell.11-10-2011
20110268716METHODS FOR THE ENRICHMENT OF VIABLE FOXP3+ CELLS AND USES THEREOF - The present invention is directed to methods of identifying and enriching for viable Foxp311-03-2011
20110262888SYSTEM FOR ENCOURAGING A USER TO PERFORM SUBSTANTIAL PHYSICAL ACTIVITY - A system for encouraging a user to perform substantial physical activity. The system may include sensors that may be worn by the user while the user is performing a substantial physical activity, such as running or playing basketball. The sensors may detect the magnitude of the physical activity and may transmit data regarding the physical activity to a processing system. The processing system may display a reward to encourage the user for participating in physical activity and the reward provided may be based on the physical activity of the user.10-27-2011
20110256495METHODS AND RELATED KITS FOR TREATING AND REGENERATING TOOTH PULP AND PERIAPICAL TISSUES IN A MAMMAL - In one embodiment, a method of regenerating tooth pulp in a mammal is provided. The method comprises removing at least a portion the existing tooth pulp of a mammal and adding amelogenin protein to the existing tooth pulp of the mammal to regenerate tooth pulp in a mammal. In another embodiment, a method of treating necrotic tooth pulp of a mammal is provided. The method comprises providing at least one necrotic tooth pulp of a mammal with an amelogenin protein. In yet another embodiment, a kit for regenerating tooth pulp in a mammal is provided. The kit comprises an adequate amount of amelogenin protein for regenerating tooth pulp in a mammal and instructions for applying the amelogenin protein to at least one tooth pulp of the mammal.10-20-2011
20110256058Novel Peptides and Uses Thereof - The invention relates to a peptide of 8-50 amino acids comprising the sequence of KAHKKRAD or KARKKHAD, or a cyclic peptide of 8-50 amino acids comprising the sequence of HKKR or RKKH. Also disclosed are methods of using the peptide for detecting, monitoring, or treating cancer.10-20-2011
20110241356SPACED-APART CABLE MODULES IN WELLBORE ENERGY STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL - A system for storing and retrieving energy may include a cable and a weight connected to the cable. A plurality of cable modules may be attached at spaced-apart locations to the cable above the weight. Each cable module may prevent the cable above and below the cable module from coming in contact with a neighboring stationary wall. A hoist may controllably raise and lower the weight by sequentially grabbing each neighboring cable module.10-06-2011
20110241354MULTI-SEGMENT WEIGHT IN WELLBORE ENERGY STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL - A system for storing and retrieving energy may include a cable and a multi-segment weight connected to the cable. The multi-segment weight may include a chain of weight segments. The chain of weight segments may be flexible so as to permit each weight segment to rotate with respect to each of its neighboring weight segments.10-06-2011
20110237545TRIHYDROXY POLYUNSATURATED EICOSANOID DERIVATIVES - The invention features methods for the preparation of naturally occurring trihydroxy polyunsaturated eicosanoids and their structural analogs. The invention further provides new derivatives and analogs of trihydroxy polyunsaturated eicosanoids that can be prepared according to these methods. The invention also provides compositions and methods using trihydroxy polyunsaturated eicosanoid derivatives for the prevention, amelioration and treatment of a variety of diseases or conditions associated with inflammation or inflammatory response, autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, or abnormal cell proliferation or cancer.09-29-2011
20110236306COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR THE REMOVAL OF BIOFILMS - This invention provides isolated or recombinant polypeptides that are useful to vaccinate individuals suffering from chronic/recurrent biofilm disease or as a therapeutic for those with an existing infection. The individual's immune system will then naturally generate antibodies which prevent or clear these bacteria from the host by interfering with the construction and or maintenance of a functional protective biofilm. Alternatively, antibodies to the polypeptides can be administered to treat or prevent infection. Bacteria that cannot form functional biofilms are more readily cleared by the remainder of the host's immune system.09-29-2011
20110233066MICROELECTROMECHANICAL (MEMS) PRESSURE TRANSDUCER - A pressure transducer for measuring pressure may include an all-polymer chamber that has no dimension greater than 1 mm. There may be fluid within the chamber, a gaseous bubble trapped within the fluid, and electrodes in contact with the fluid. The electrodes may enable a measurement of changes in the impedance of the fluid caused by changes in the volume of the gaseous bubble caused by changes in the pressure to be measured.09-29-2011
20110224284PUTATIVE TUMOR SUPPRESSOR MICRORNA-101 MODULATES THE CANCER EPIGENOME BY REPRESSING THE POLYCOMB GROUP PROTEIN EZH2 - The present invention relates in general to microRNA profiling in disease. More specifically, the invention provides for methods and compositions of microRNA to inhibit the growth and formation of tumors.09-15-2011
20110218045PREDICTING GAME PLAYER MONETIZATION BASED ON PLAYER LOGS - A massively multiplayer online game (MMOG) monetization analysis computer system may include an electronic data processing system configured to electronically analyze data, including player behavioral logs, in accordance with one or more algorithms. Based on the analysis, the electronic data processing system may predict player changes that are relevant to monetization of the MMOG and generate a report relating to these predicted changes. The analysis may identify players whom are predicted to terminate their subscriptions to the MMOG, an amount of time each of several players is likely to spend playing the MMOG, and/or a number of transactions each of a several players is likely to engage in while playing the MMOG.09-08-2011
20110217314Methods and Compositions for Modulating Apoptosis - This invention relates to compositions and methods for modulating apoptosis by regulating the activity of endoplasmic reticulum transmembrane glucose regulated protein 78 (GRP78).09-08-2011
20110214071INFORMATION CHANNELS IN MMOGS - Real world news may be received in real time. A real world occurrence may be extracted from the real world news. An attribute of a virtual world may be modified in response to the extracted real world occurrence.09-01-2011
20110212467INHIBITORS OF dUTPase - Evidence demonstrating that elevated expression of dUTPase protects breast cancer cells from the expansion of the intracellular uracil pool, translating to reduced growth inhibition following treatment with 5-FU is provided. The implementation of in silica drug development techniques to identify and develop small molecule inhibitors of dUTPase are reported. As 5-FU and the oral 5-FU pro-drug capecitabine remain central agents in the treatment of a variety of malignancies, the clinical utility of a small molecule inhibitor to dUTPase represents a viable strategy to improve the clinical efficacy of these mainstay chemotherapeutic agents.09-01-2011
20110207095Teaching Language Through Interactive Translation - An application (computer program, an embodiment can be a game) which requires translation as one of its metrics is used to help the user can learn a language while operating the system (in a game embodiment, playing the game). The interaction is carried out only in a foreign language, but the application also includes translation capability. A virtual buddy can be used to translate between the native language and the foreign language so that the user can translate information and eventually learn information about the language by the process of interacting with the system (in an embodiment playing the game).08-25-2011
20110206323WAVEGUIDE-BASED DISPERSION DEVICE - Systems, devices, and techniques are disclosed relating to dispersion devices that include a slot waveguide coupled with another waveguide such as a strip waveguide. For example, one or more structural parameters can be obtained for a dispersion device, including a slot waveguide coupled to a strip waveguide, to cause the dispersion device to produce dispersion, having a dispersion profile, for an electromagnetic wave propagated through the dispersion device, the one or more structural parameters including one or more of a slot thickness for a slot of the slot waveguide or a spacing thickness between the slot waveguide and the other waveguide; and making the dispersion device, including the slot waveguide and the other waveguide, according to the structural parameters.08-25-2011
20110206291COMBINED SPECTRAL AND POLARIMETRY IMAGING AND DIAGNOSTICS - Combined spectral and polarimetry imaging and diagnostic techniques are disclosed, including an imaging system that simultaneously records spatially co-registered spectral and polarization information from an image of a target scene such as an ocular structure or material or device in an around the eye. Image acquisition and image calibration by such an imaging system or an imaging spectrometer or polarimeter are also disclosed. Methods of data storage and image display relevant to medical practice in general and ophthalmology practice specifically are further disclosed.08-25-2011
20110206288IMAGE ENCODING/DECODING SYSTEM USING GRAPH BASED PIXEL PREDICTION AND ENCODING SYSTEM AND METHOD - Provided are an image encoding/decoding system and method using a graph-based pixel prediction, and a depth map encoding system and method. The encoding system may generate an edge map based on a pixel value difference between neighboring pixels in an inputted image, generate a graph by connecting pixels using the generated edge map, select a prediction value for at least one pixel based on the generated graph, and encode an image based on the selected prediction value.08-25-2011
20110201567Ivermectin Antagonizes Ethanol Inhibition in P2X4 Receptors - A method for reducing alcohol consumption in a subject includes a step of identifying a subject exhibiting at least one symptom of alcoholism and then administering a therapeutically effective amount of an Ivermectin analogue-containing composition to the subject. A method of screening Ivermectin analogues for reducing alcohol consumption is also provided.08-18-2011
20110201103System For Synergetic Expression Of Multiple Small Functional RNA Elements - The present invention relates in general to microRNAs (miRNAs). More specifically, the invention relates to expression vectors comprising multiple miRNA families and clusters capable of targeting multiple oncogenic pathways.08-18-2011
20110183159ELECTRICITY GENERATION USING MICROBIAL FUEL CELLS - A microbial fuel cell for generating electricity. The microbial fuel cell includes an anode and a cathode electrically coupled to the anode. The anode is in contact with a first fluid including microorganisms capable of catalyzing the oxidation of ammonium. The anode is in contact with a second fluid including microorganisms capable of catalyzing the reduction of nitrite. The anode and the cathode may be housed in a single compartment, and the cathode may rotate with respect to the anode. The microbial fuel cell can be used to remove ammonium from wastewater, to generate electricity, or both.07-28-2011
20110172954FENCE INTRUSION DETECTION - A compact, inexpensive, and reliable fence intrusion detection system may detect activity on a fence and determine the type of activity based on discrimination. The hardware may include a 3-axis accelerometer and a RISC microprocessor. The system may be equipped with a wireless device which enables the system to work remotely and communicate with a base station. An algorithm may detect activity vs. no-activity on the fence. The algorithm may thereafter recognize the type of the activity; such as whether it is due to rattling caused by strong wind or a breach such as a person climbing the fence. The recognition algorithm may be computationally inexpensive and therefore also may be embedded inside a local RISC microcontroller. The system has been tested on different fences and demonstrated an over 90% correct recognition rate.07-14-2011
20110169664ACOUSTIC SIGNATURE RECOGNITION OF RUNNING VEHICLES USING SPECTRO-TEMPORAL DYNAMIC NEURAL NETWORK - A method and apparatus for identifying running vehicles in an area to be monitored using acoustic signature recognition. The apparatus includes an input sensor for capturing an acoustic waveform produced by a vehicle source, and a processing system. The waveform is digitized and divided into frames. Each frame is filtered into a plurality of gammatone filtered signals. At least one spectral feature vector is computed for each frame. The vectors are integrated across a plurality of frames to create a spectro-temporal representation of the vehicle waveform. In a training mode, values from the spectro-temporal representation are used as inputs to a Nonlinear Hebbian learning function to extract acoustic signatures and synaptic weights. In an active mode, the synaptic weights and acoustic signatures are used as patterns in a supervised associative network to identify whether a vehicle is present in the area to be monitored. In response to a vehicle being present, the class of vehicle is identified. Results may be provided to a central computer.07-14-2011
20110167136Source-Based Alert When Streaming Media of Live Event on Computer Network is of Current Interest and Related Feedback - A real time streaming video capture, delivery, and alert system may capture a streaming video of a live event and deliver it into a computer network as the live event is being captured. The system may include a camera, a network interface, a source operator interface configured to receive alerts, and a processing system. The system may issue an alert when the live event is currently of interest.07-07-2011
20110118528Methods and Nutritional Formulations to Increase the Efficacy and Reduce the Side Effects of Cancer Treatment - The present invention relates to methods of protecting patients and sensitizing cancer cells in combination with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. More specifically, the invention provides nutritional methods and formulations that are capable of reducing cancer growth without causing chronic weight loss in patients, protecting normal cells, tissues and organs from chemotherapy and/radiation therapy, and sensitizing cancer cells against low, normal and high-dose chemotherapy. Some of the methods also impede cancer growth even without chemotherapy.05-19-2011
20110111412Uses of Parylene Membrane Filters - The invention provides parylene membrane filters, filter devices and methods of making them and using them in the mechanical separation of cells and particles by size. The provision of parylene membrane filters with high figures of merit and finely controlled hole sizes allows the separation of cells and particles in a variety of biological and other fluids according to sizes.05-12-2011
20110101302WAFER-SCALE FABRICATION OF SEPARATED CARBON NANOTUBE THIN-FILM TRANSISTORS - Methods, materials, systems and apparatus are described for depositing a separated nanotube networks, and fabricating, separated nanotube thin-film transistors and N-type separated nanotube thin-film transistors. In one aspect, a method of depositing a wafer-scale separated nanotube networks includes providing a substrate with a dielectric layer. The method includes cleaning a surface of the wafer substrate to cause the surface to become hydrophilic. The cleaned surface of the wafer substrate is functionalized by applying a solution that includes linker molecules terminated with amine groups. High density, uniform separated nanotubes are assembled over the functionalized surface by applying to the functionalized surface a separated nanotube solution that includes semiconducting nanotubes.05-05-2011
20110098483Substituted Nitrogen Heterocycles and Synthesis and Uses Thereof - The invention relates to a nitrogen heterocycle compound of formula 1:04-28-2011
20110098461Novel RNA Interference Methods Using DNA-RNA Duplex Constructs - The present invention provides novel compositions and methods for suppressing the function or activity of a targeted gene through a novel intracellular piRNA-mediated RNAi mechanism, using RNA-DNA duplex constructs. The invention further provides novel methods and compositions for generating or producing RNA-DNA duplex agents, whose quantity is high enough to be used for the invention's gene silencing transfection and possibly in therapeutics applications. This improved RNA-polymerase chain reaction (RNA-PCR) method utilizes thermocycling steps of promoter-linked DNA or RNA template synthesis, in vitro transcription and then reverse transcription to bring up the amount of RNA-DNA duplexes up to two thousand folds within one round of the above procedure for using in D-RNAi-directed gene silencing.04-28-2011
20110096629ACOUSTIC SIGNAL GENERATION SYSTEM USING MOVING REFLECTING SURFACE - An acoustic signal generation system may include a cylindrical-like object having a cylindrical-like surface which is configured to reflect an acoustic signal directed to a location on the surface in substantially different directions as the cylindrical-like object is rotated. The cylindrical-like surface may be on the exterior of the cylindrical-like object or form an interior surface of the cylindrical-like object. The cylindrical-like surface may be formed by a plurality of substantially flat surfaces connected to one another in a substantially cylindrical configuration. The flat surfaces may have different angular orientations with respect to the axis of rotation. An acoustic transducer may be configured and oriented so as to direct an acoustic signal to a location on the cylindrical-like surface as the cylindrical-like object rotates. A motor may be configured to cause the cylindrical-like object to rotate.04-28-2011
20110085702OBJECT TRACKING BY HIERARCHICAL ASSOCIATION OF DETECTION RESPONSES - Systems, methods, and computer readable storage media are described that can provide a multi-level hierarchical framework to progressively associate detection responses, in which different methods and models are adopted to improve tracking robustness. A modified transition matrix for the Hungarian algorithm can be used to solve the association problem that considers not only initialization, termination and transition of tracklets but also false alarm hypotheses. A Bayesian inference approach can be used to automatically estimate a scene structure model as the high-level knowledge for the long-range trajectory association.04-14-2011
20110082082SKIN WOUND HEALING COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - A wound healing composition comprising a class of polypeptide compounds having a polypeptide chain with 5 to 120 amino acid units per chain. The composition includes a pharmaceutical medium to carry the polypeptide compound, such as an aqueous solution, suspension, dispersion, salve, ointment, gel, cream, lotion, spray or paste. Additionally, a method of applying a wound healing composition comprising a class of polypeptide compounds having a polypeptide chain with 5 to 120 amino acid units per chain in a concentration of from about 1 pg/ml to about 100 μg/ml for a time sufficient to heal the wound is disclosed.04-07-2011
20110076350EXTRUSION OF CEMENTITIOUS MATERIAL WITH DIFFERENT CURING RATES - A cementitious material delivery system comprising may include a flow divider, a first and second chemical agent, a first and second mixer, and a nozzle. The flow divider may be configured to divide a flow of cementitious material into a first stream and a second stream that is separate from the first stream. The first chemical agent may cure the cementitious material at a first rate when mixed with the cementitious material. A first mixer may be configured to mix the first chemical agent with the first steam of cementitious material to produce a first mixed stream of cementitious material. A second chemical agent may be configured to cure the cementitious material at a second rate when mixed with the cementitious material which is faster than the first rate. A second mixer separate may be configured to mix the second chemical agent with the second steam of cementitious material to produce a second mixed stream of cementitious material. A nozzle may be configured to extrude the first mixed stream of cementitious material and the second mixed stream of cementitious material separate from the first mixed stream of cementitious material.03-31-2011
20110073837HIGH-PERFORMANCE SINGLE-CRYSTALLINE N-TYPE DOPANT-DOPED METAL OXIDE NANOWIRES FOR TRANSPARENT THIN FILM TRANSISTORS AND ACTIVE MATRIX ORGANIC LIGHT-EMITTING DIODE DISPLAYS - Methods, materials, apparatus and systems are described for implementing high-performance arsenic (As)-doped indium oxide (In03-31-2011
20110065643Clusterin Pharmaceuticals and Treatment Methods Using the Same - Disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising clusterin and polypeptides substantially the same as clusterin and treatment methods for inflammatory diseases and dry eye disease. The pharmaceutical compositions include an isolated clusterin or an isolated polypeptide substantially the same as clusterin. The clusterin is preferably secreted clusterin. The method of treating dry eye disease includes administering to a patient in need an effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition comprising an isolated clusterin or an isolated polypeptide substantially the same as clusterin. The method of treating a disease state characterized by inflammation includes administering to a patient having the disease state an amount of isolated clusterin or a protein substantially the same as clusterin effective to decrease the activity of a matrix metallproteinase selected from the group consisting of MMP-9, MMP-2 and MMP-7.03-17-2011
20110065179TRANSGENE DELIVERING RETROVIRUS TARGETING COLLAGEN EXPOSED AT SITE OF TISSUE INJURY - A viral or non-viral vector particle having a modified viral surface protein wherein the viral surface protein is modified to include a targeting polypeptide including a binding region which binds to an extracellular matrix component. Such vector particles are useful in delivering genes encoding therapeutic agents to cells located at the site of an exposed extracellular matrix component.03-17-2011
20110064677LIPOXIN ANALOGS AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE - This invention provides new lipoxin analogs, compositions containing analogs, and methods of using these compounds and compositions for treating and preventing oral inflammation, including gingivitis, periodontitis, and other forms of periodontal disease. The invention also provides for methods of treating and preventing oral inflammation, including gingivitis, periodontitis, and other forms of periodontal disease with compositions containing COX-2 inhibitors. Further, the invention provides methods for preventing systemic diseases beyond theoral cavity that are related to periodontal disease using the composition containing lipoxin analogs, COX-2 inhibitors, or both.03-17-2011
20110060226FRESNEL-BASED BEAMFORMING FOR ULTRASONIC ARRAYS - An ultrasonic beamformer may include an input signal line for each ultrasonic transducer element configured to carry a broadband pulse from the ultrasonic element. The ultrasonic beamformer may include a number of signal shifters that is substantially less than the number of transducer elements. Each signal shifter may be configured to shift a broadband pulse in a way that is different from the way the other signal shifters are configured to shift a broadband pulse. For each of the input signal lines, a multiplexer may be configured to electrically connect the broadband pulse received on the input signal line to a selected one of the signal shifters. A multiplexer controller may be configured to generate the control signal for each of the multiplexers in a fashion that causes the ultrasonic beamformer to substantially compensate for the differences in the distances. A comparable configuration may be used for transmission.03-10-2011
20110053152METHOD FOR CANCER DETECTION, DIAGNOSIS AND PROGNOSIS - The present invention provides a method for diagnosing cancer, predicting a disease outcome or response to therapy in a patient sample. The method involves isolating a circulating tumor cell (CTC), for example, a viable CTC, from a sample using a parylene microfilter device comprising a membrane filter having or consisting of a parylene substrate, which has an array of holes with a predetermined shape and size; and detecting and quantifying telomerase activity in blood circulating tumor cells. The invention further provides methods of using cells live-captured in various applications.03-03-2011
20110052670IDENTIFICATION OF A PLURIPOTENT PRE-MESENCHYMAL, PRE-HEMATOPOIETIC PROGENITOR CELL - The present invention provides a molecular marker for the identification of pluripotent pre-mesenchymal, pre-hematopoietic stem cells. The invention further provides primitive progenitor cells identified by the molecular marker. Such cells have the potential to differentiate into both mesenchymal and hematopoietic phenotypes, as determined by a proliferative response to inductive growth factors and cytokines, and by their morphologic and cytochemical features.03-03-2011
20110049905GENERATION OF ELECTRIC ENERGY USING CABLE-SUPPORTED WINDMILLS - An electric energy generation system may include a plurality of windmills, a windmill support system, an electric generator, and a coupling system. The windmills may each be configured to transform wind energy into rotational energy. The windmill support system may support the windmills in positions that are spaced apart from one another. The electric generator may be configured to transform rotational energy into electric energy. The coupling system may be configured to couple the rotational energy generated by each of the windmills to the electric generator in a manner that permits the windmills to rotate at different speeds during operation of the electric energy generation system. Other configurations are also disclosed.03-03-2011
20110048955ELECTRODEPOSITION OF PLATINUM/IRIDIUM (PT/IR) ON PT MICROELECTRODES WITH IMPROVED CHARGE INJECTION PROPERTIES - Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to electrochemical approaches for synthesis of platinum-iridium alloys with selected platinum-iridium ratio content and subsequently predetermined mechanical properties and electrochemical impedance properties. Such can provide a simple and cost-effective process for preparing these electrodes, as compared to conventional thin film processing techniques. A three-electrode electrochemical electrodeposition system is described including an electrochemical cell with a working electrode on which the electrodeposited film is deposited, a counter electrode to complete the electrochemical circuit and a reference electrode to measure and control surface potential. Mixed layers of platinum atoms and iridium atoms can be deposited from electrolyte solution onto the working electrode surface to create an electrically conductive surface with material properties related to the composition of the as-deposited film. The mechanical properties and electrochemical properties of the film can be tuned by adjusting the electrodeposition parameters.03-03-2011
20110039333DEFINED CONDITIONS FOR HUMAN EMBRYONIC STEM CELL CULTURE AND PASSAGE - The invention relates to human pluripotent cells. More specifically, the invention provides a chemically defined xeno-free culture system that allows for long term expansion of human pluripotent cells. This culture system allows for human pluripotent cell lines to be maintained in the pluripotent state for an extended time while maintaining a normal karyotype and the ability to differentiate into all three germ layers.02-17-2011
20110034472Novel Compounds for Treatment of Cancer and Disorders Associated With Angiogenesis Function - Novel compounds for treatment of cancer and disorders associated with angiogenesis function. Also disclosed are a method of preparing the compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and packaged products containing the compounds, a method of using these molecules to treat cancer (e.g., leukemia, non-small cell lung cancer, colon cancer, CNS cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, renal cancer, and prostate cancer) and disorders associated with angiogenesis function (e.g., age-related macular degeneration, macular dystrophy, and diabetes), a method of monitoring the treatment, a method of profiling gene expression, and a method of modulating cell growth, cell cycle, apoptosis, or gene expression.02-10-2011
20110029941MULTI-LEVEL DOMINO, BUNDLED DATA, AND MIXED TEMPLATES - Techniques are described for generating asynchronous circuits (e.g., in the form of one or more netlists) for implementation, e.g., in integrated circuitry/chips. Embodiments are directed to asynchronous multi-level domino design template and several variants including a mixture of domino and single-rail data logic. The templates can provide high throughput, low latency, and area efficiency. A multi-level domino template is partitioned into pipeline stages in which each stage consists of potentially multiple-levels of domino logic controlled by a single controller that communicates with other controllers via handshaking. Each stage is composed of two parts: a data path and a control path. The data path implements the computational logic, both combinational and sequential using efficient dual-rail domino logic. The control path implements a unique four-phase handshake to ensure correctness and the preservation of logical dependencies between pipeline stages. The data path and controller interact through a small number of key control signals.02-03-2011
20110026534Packet Switch with Separate Look Ahead, Computation, and Shift Phases - A packet switch architecture that can switch optical packets at high throughputs without using any random access memory, without fragmenting variable length packets into fixed length fragments and reassembling them, and without converting the optical packets into electronic packets. Programmable delay lines are use which delay the output of each packet for a programmable amount which may be re-programmed while the packet is being delayed by the programmable delay line. Programmable delay line controllers manages the delays imposed by the programmable delay lines so as to have a look-ahead phase during which information about the packets is gathered and a shift phase during which the sequence of packets is shifted to match an output sequence.02-03-2011
20110019073Camera with Precise Visual Indicator to Subject When Within Camera View - A camera may include a lens, an image sensor, an image detection system, a controllable light source, and a light source control system. The image detection system may be configured to generate electronic information representative of images generated by the lens by detecting sequential images sensed by the image sensor. The detecting may not be done during certain periods of time. The controllable light source may be behind the lens and configured to controllably project light through the lens and back onto a scene in front of the lens. While in at least one mode, the light source control system may be configured to activate the controllable light source only while the image detection system is not detecting an image from the image sensor. The light source control system may be configured to activate the controllable light source and to cause it to emit light at an intensity which is sufficient to be readily visible to a normal human looking at the lens while within the scene, but not sufficient to materially alter the electronic information generated by the image detection system.01-27-2011
20110016548CONTROL OF ENDOGENOUS DNMT1 GENE EXPRESSION BY EXOGENOUS BINARY REGULATORY SYSTEMS - Provided are methods for controlling endogenous gene expression comprising control of the DNA methyltransferase (Dnmt1) for modulation of DNA methylation and epigenetic mechanisms. Provided are transcriptional regulatory systems involving multiple (e.g., three) exogenous binary systems, lacI, tetR and Gal4, for reversible up/down regulation of endogenous target genes Provided are lac operator and repressor modifications for improved repression relative to wild type (WT) lac and tet systems. Provided are endogenous Dnmt1 promoter modifications, comprising targeted lac operator sequences that do not significantly alter promoter activity absent repressors, yet show substantially reduced expression of the targeted allele upon lac repressor introduction. The lacO targeted Dnmt1 allele is introducible into the mouse germline, to provide a respective upregulatable transcriptional control system in vivo (e.g., two binary systems, tet operator/tetVP16 and Gal4 binding sequence/Gal4VP16, and ES cell gene targeting experiments are conducted with a Dnmt1 promoter construct combining all three cis elements.01-20-2011
20110008244SYNTHESIS OF METAL CHALCOGENIDE NANOCRYSTALS USING ORGANODICHALCOGENIDE REAGENTS - A method of synthesizing metal chalcogenide nanocrystals involving the steps of combining an organodichalcogenide, a metal salt and a ligand compound to form a mixture; degassing the mixture to remove air and water from the mixture; heating the mixture at a temperature below the decomposition temperature of the organodichalcogenide for a period of time sufficient to form a metal chalcogenide nanocrystal.01-13-2011
20110002528VERIFICATION OF INTEGRATED CIRCUITS AGAINST MALICIOUS CIRCUIT INSERTIONS AND MODIFICATIONS USING NON-DESTRUCTIVE X-RAY MICROSCOPY - A method and system for verifying the integrity of integrated circuits (ICs) by detecting the presence of unauthorized circuit insertions or modifications using non-destructive x-ray microscopy is disclosed. A reference image based on a trusted IC or a trusted design file may be generated. An un-trusted IC may be received from an un-trusted foundry, which IC is manufactured in response to the trusted design file provided to the foundry. An x-ray microscope may record a plurality of sets of base images of the un-trusted IC, each set corresponding to a different viewing angle. One or more un-trusted images may be produced from the base images. The reference images may be compared with the un-trusted images to illuminate any additions or modifications in circuit elements or other parameters.01-06-2011
20100331393COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF SPHINGOSINE KINASE INHIBITORS IN RADIATION THERAPY OF VARIOUS CANCERS - The present invention relates to Sphingosine kinase inhibitors that are useful for treating various cancers. The invention further relates to compositions and methods of SPK inhibitors, including siRNAs, which specifically block gene expression of SPK and potentiates the effect of radiation in the treatment of various cancers.12-30-2010
20100328677Estimating spectral distribution of reflections from object surface based on low frequency illumination - A system for estimating the specular roughness of points on a surface of an object may include a lighting system, an image capture system and a computer processing system. The lighting system may be configured to illuminate the surface of the object at different times with different illumination patterns. Each illumination pattern may illuminate the surface from a plurality of different directions and form an intensity gradient having an order of no more than two. The image capture system may be configured to capture an image of the surface of the object when illuminated by each of the different illumination patterns at each of the different times. The computer processing system may be configured to compute the specular roughness of each point on the surface of the object based on the images captured by the image capture system.12-30-2010
20100318222AUTOMATED PLUMBING, WIRING, AND REINFORCEMENT - An apparatus may include a nozzle assembly configured to extrude material through an outlet; and a controllable robotic arm coupled to the nozzle assembly, the robotic arm having at one end a gripper configured to pick up an element and deposit the element at a desired position relative to the extruded material. The element may be one of: a reinforcement member for a structure being constructed; a segment of a plumbing pipe; an electric network component; and a tile.12-16-2010
20100300708DETECTION AND SUPPRESSION OF AIRWAY / DRAPE FIRES DURING SURGICAL PROCEDURES - Apparatus for oxygenating the airway of a patient may include a device for delivering an oxygen-carrying gas into the airway, a fire detection system configured to detect indications of an imminent or incipient fire in the airway, and a fire suppression system configured to suppress the imminent or incipient fire in the airway in response to detection of the fire in the airway by the fire detection system.12-02-2010
20100298416PREVENTING HYALURONAN-MEDIATED TUMORIGENETIC MECHANISMS USING INTRONIC RNAS - Patterns of microRNA (miRNA) expression are correlated to the degrees of tumor cell differentiation in human prostate cancer. MiRNAs can complementarily bind to either oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes, resulting in targeted gene silencing and thus changes of cellular tumorigenecity. Using miRNA microarray analysis, 8 down-regulated and 3 up-regulated known miRNAs in androgen-independent human prostate cancer cell lines, such as LNCaP C4-2B and PC3, compared to those androgen-dependent cell lines, such as LNCaP and PC3-AR9 were consistently detected. Fluorescent in-situ hybridization assays in human prostate cancer tissue arrays containing sixty patients at different stages also showed the same miRNA expression patterns in hormone-refractory prostate carcinomas (HRPC) compared to androgen-sensitive non-cancerous prostate epithelium. In-vitro tumorigenecity assays using one of the identified miRNAs, mir-146a, were performed to provide validation of its function in prostate cancer. Gain-of-function transfection of mir-146a markedly suppressed its targeted ROCK1 gene expression in androgen-independent PC3 cells, consequently resulting in reduced cancer cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis to human bone marrow endothelial cell monolayers. Since ROCK1 is the key kinase for activating hyaluronan-mediated HRPC transformation in vivo and in PC3 cells, mir-146a should function as a tumor-suppressor gene in modulating the ROCK1-associated tumorigenecity.11-25-2010
20100297641METHYLATION ALTERED DNA SEQUENCES AS MARKERS ASSOCIATED WITH HUMAN CANCER - There is disclosed 103 novel methylation-altered DNA sequences (“marker sequences”) that have distinct methylation patterns in cancer, compared to normal tissue. In many instances, these marker sequences represent novel sequences not found in the GenBank data base, and none of these marker sequences have previously been characterized with respect to their methylation pattern in human cancers including, but not limited to those of bladder and prostate. These 103 sequences have utility as diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic markers in the treatment of human cancer, and as reagents in kits for detecting methylated CpG-containing nucleic acids.11-25-2010
20100292348DETECTION OF METHYLATED DNA AND DNA MUTATIONS - The present invention relates to various methods of detecting DNA methylation and defected DNA. In one embodiment, the invention provides a nanosensor bound to a probe that is complementary to a DNA methylation sequence.11-18-2010
20100278778METHOD FOR BONE MARROW PRESERVATION OR RECOVERY - Methods for enhancing or stimulating hematopoiesis including the step of administering Interleukin-12 (IL-12) to yield hematopoietic recovery in a mammal in need. Preferred methods include the step of administering IL-12 as an adjuvant therapy to alleviate the hematopoietic toxicities associated with one or more treatment regimens used to combat a disease state. Other methods include administering IL-12 to ameliorate various hematopoietic deficiencies. Still other methods are directed to uses of IL-12 for in-vivo proliferation of hematopoietic repopulating cells, hematopoietic progenitor cells and hematopoietic stem cells. Other disclosed methods are directed to uses of IL-12 for bone marrow preservation or recovery.11-04-2010
20100278777METHOD FOR TREATING DEFICIENCY IN HEMATOPOIESIS - Methods for enhancing or stimulating hematopoiesis including the step of administering Interleukin-12 (IL-12) to yield hematopoietic recovery in a mammal in need. Preferred methods include the step of administering IL-12 as an adjuvant therapy to alleviate the hematopoietic toxicities associated with one or more treatment regimens used to combat a disease state. Other methods include administering IL-12 to ameliorate various hematopoietic deficiencies. Still other methods are directed to uses of IL-12 for in-vivo proliferation of hematopoietic repopulating cells, hematopoietic progenitor cells and hematopoietic stem cells. Other disclosed methods are directed to uses of IL-12 for bone marrow preservation or recovery.11-04-2010
20100277691Methods for Diagnosing Glaucoma Utilizing Combinations of FD-OCT Measurements from Three Anatomical Regions of the Eye - This invention discloses methods and systems for diagnosing glaucoma by combining diagnostic parameters derived from optical coherence tomography images of three different anatomic regions of the eye, including the macular ganglion cell complex (mGCC), the peripapillary nerve fiber layer (ppNFL), and the optic nerve head (ONH). The combined diagnostic parameters form a reduced set of global parameters, which are then fed to pre-trained machine classifiers as input to arrive at a single diagnostic indicator for glaucoma. Also disclosed are methods for training a machine classifier to be used in methods and systems of this invention.11-04-2010
20100268671PROTECTING MILITARY PERIMETERS FROM APPROACHING HUMAN AND VEHICLE USING BIOLOGICALLY REALISTIC NEURAL NETWORK - An approaching human threat or vehicle, such as a suicide bomber nearing a secured zone such as a military base, may be detected and classified. A vibration recognition system may detect a systematic vibration event. The entity might be a medium, human, animal, or a passenger vehicle. The system may discriminate between such an event and a background or other vibration event, such as a falling tree limb. A seismic sensor may be employed to detect vibrations generated by footsteps and a vehicle. Seismic waves may be processed locally where the sensor is located. The system may wirelessly communicate with a remote command center. Temporal features of the vibration signals may be modeled by a Dynamic Synapse Neural Network (DSNN) with good false recognition rates. The models may reject quadrupedal animal footsteps.10-21-2010
20100268301IMAGE PROCESSING ALGORITHM FOR CUEING SALIENT REGIONS - A method for cueing salient regions of an image in an image processing device is provided and includes the steps of extracting three information streams from the image. A set of Gaussian pyramids are formed from the three information streams by performing eight levels of decimation by a factor two. A set of feature maps are formed from a portion of the set of Gaussian pyramids. The set of feature maps are resized and summed to form a set of conspicuity maps. The set of conspicuity maps are normalized, weighted and summed to form the saliency map.10-21-2010
20100260745METHODS OF USING AND CONSTRUCTING NANOSENSOR PLATFORMS - The present invention relates to the use of nanowires, nanotubes and nanosensor platforms. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of constructing a nanosensor platform. In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method of analyzing multiple biomarker signals on a nanosensor platform for the detection of a disease.10-14-2010
20100260011CADENCE ANALYSIS OF TEMPORAL GAIT PATTERNS FOR SEISMIC DISCRIMINATION - Systems, methods, and apparatus are described that provide for analysis of seismic data. Features of temporal gait patterns can be extracted from seismic/vibration data. A mean temporal gait pattern can be determined. A statistical classifier can be used to model features of the data. The model can be used to classify the data. As a result, discrimination of seismic sources can be performed. Systems for discrimination of seismic data are also described. A system can include a vibration sensor system configured and arranged to detect vibrations. A system can also include a processor system configured and arranged to receive data from the vibration sensor, recognize the seismic data as belonging to a particular class of seismic data, and produce an output signal corresponding to the recognized particular class of seismic data.10-14-2010
20100257792CONTOUR CRAFTING EXTRUSION NOZZLES - An automated extrusion construction system may include an extrusion nozzle configured to extrude construction material in a substantially horizontal direction against an elongated and substantially vertical surface. An extrusion nozzle may have a height adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the height of an outlet in response to level deviations in the surface on which the construction material is extruded by the extrusion nozzle. An automated extrusion construction system may include a slicing mechanism configured to controllably slice through the extruded layer.10-14-2010
20100249212Gene Silencing Using mRNA-cDNA Hybrids - The present invention provides novel compositions and methods for suppressing the expression of a targeted gene using mRNA-cDNA duplexes. The invention further provides novel methods and compositions for generating amplified mRNA-cDNA hybrids, whose quantity is high enough to be used for the invention's gene silencing transfection. This improved RNA-polymerase chain reaction method uses thermocycling steps of promoter-linked double-stranded cDNA or RNA synthesis, in vitro transcription and then reverse transcription to amplify the amount of mRNA-cDNA hybrids up to two thousand folds within one round of the above procedure.09-30-2010
20100239596GRP78 AND TUMOR ANGIOGENESIS - Methods of preventing or reducing tumor angiogenesis in a subject, comprising administering to the subject one or more agents that inhibit expression or activity of GRP78 are provided. Also provided are methods of sensitizing tumor blood vessels to a chemotherapeutic agent comprising administering to the subject one or more agents that inhibit expression or activity of GRP78. Provided is also a method of reducing tumor microvessel density in a subject, comprising selecting a subject with a tumor, wherein the subject is in need of reduction of tumor microvessel density, and administering to the subject one or more agents that inhibit expression or activity of GRP78.09-23-2010
20100237958FEED-BACK AND FEED-FORWARD SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO REDUCE OSCILLATOR PHASE-NOISE - Systems, methods, and apparatus are described that provide for low phase-noise, spectrally-pure, and low-jitter signals from electrical oscillators. An aspect of the present disclosure includes utilization of an open-loop feed-forward phase-noise cancellation scheme to cancel phase noise, or jitter, of an electrical oscillator. Phase noise can be measured and then subtracted, with the phase noise measurement and subtraction being performed at a speed faster than phase noise variations of the oscillator. Another aspect of the present disclosure includes use of a feedback scheme for phase noise reduction. A feedback scheme can be used alone or in conjunction with a feed-forward scheme. Related phase-noise cancellation and/or reduction methods are described. Notch filter and RF amplifier circuits are also described.09-23-2010
20100222769MEMS ELECTROCHEMICAL BELLOWS ACTUATOR - An implantable fluid delivery system may include a fluid reservoir configured to hold a supply of fluid, to dispense that fluid under the control of an actuator, and to be implanted within the body of a living host. An actuator within the fluid reservoir may cause the fluid to be controllably dispensed from the fluid reservoir. The actuator may include a bellows configured to expand in a direction when inflated. The bellows may have folds with surfaces which run substantially perpendicular to the direction of expansion in a collapsed state and which define a stacked set of convolutions. Each convolution may have a collapsed height of no more than 1 mm and a width perpendicular to the direction of expansion of no more than 8 mm. Electrodes may be configured to come in electrical contact with an electrolyte within the bellows and to cause electricity to run through the electrolyte, thereby causing the electrolyte to break down into a gas and, in turn, to cause the bellows to expand. Methods of making the bellows which utilize stacked sheets are also disclosed.09-02-2010
20100221830Device and Method for Ambient Storage of Fresh/Frozen Tissue Sections Via Desiccation - The present invention discloses a method for storing and preserving previously sectioned, snap-frozen, and desiccated biological tissue samples at ambient conditions. Also disclosed are devices and systems for ambient storage of biological tissue sections, and methods for forming said devices.09-02-2010
20100217209DRUG DELIVERY DEVICE WITH IN-PLANE BANDPASS REGULATION CHECK VALVE IN HEAT-SHRINK PACKAGING - A drug delivery device may include a drug reservoir configured to contain and controllably deliver a fluidic drug. A tube may be configured to deliver the fluid from the drug reservoir through a lumen in the tube to another location. A valve wholly within the lumen of the tube may regulates the flow of the fluid through the tube without substantially diverting the direction in which the fluid flows through the tube. The valve may contain only a single member which moves during operation of the valve. The valve may be configured to regulate the flow of fluid in a bandpass manner by allowing fluid to flow through the valve only when the pressure of the fluid is above a minimum and below a maximum. The valve may be held in place within the tube solely by frictional force between the valve and a wall of the tube.08-26-2010
20100215715GEL DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR TISSUE REPAIR - The present invention discloses methods and compositions comprising a biocompatible gel that is used in tissue repair and regeneration. Once the gel is administered to a tissue site in need of repair or regeneration, the cells migrate from the gel into the tissue and repair or regenerate the tissue.08-26-2010
20100210836SMALL MOLECULE INHIBITORS OF LYMPHOID TYROSINE PHOSPHATASE - The present invention relates to lymphoid tyrosine phosphatase inhibitors and autoimmunity. More specifically, the invention relates to the identification of lymphoid tyrosine phosphatase inhibitors and the analysis of the structure-activity relationship.08-19-2010
20100204062CALIBRATION METHODS FOR MULTIPLEXED SENSOR ARRAYS - The present invention relates to the calibration of devices using a secondary binding agent or reference material. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of calibrating a nanosensor by providing a nanosensor comprising an analyte binder attached to a reference binder, extracting a calibration curve from binding a reference material to the reference binder, and calibrating the nanosensor by using the calibration curve to correct for device variation.08-12-2010
20100196854Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Mediated Functional Tooth Regeneration - A method for reconstructing a functional tooth by using a carrier loaded with a plurality of mesenchymal stem cells including at least one of a stem cell derived from Apical Papilla (SCAP), Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells (PDLSC), and Dental Pulp Stem Cells (DPSC). The mesenchymal stem cell loaded carrier is planted into a site within a subject's oral cavity to form a bio-root upon which a crown may be affixed, The mesenchymal stem cells will develop new periodontal tissues to stabilize the bio-root. Methods disclosed herein are particularly beneficial for subjects lacking good bone structures for conventional crown treatments.08-05-2010
20100196742Electricity Generation Using Phototrophic Microbial Fuel Cells - A sediment-type self-sustained phototrophic microbial fuel cell for generating electricity through the syntrophic interaction between photosynthetic microorganisms and heterotrophic bacteria in algae cultivation ponds used for biodiesel production. The microbial fuel cell is operable to continuously produce electricity without the external input of exogenous organics or nutrients.08-05-2010
20100196271Cage-Like Bifunctional Chelators, Copper-64 Radiopharmaceuticals and PET Imaging Using the Same - Disclosed is a class of versatile Sarcophagine based bifunctional chelators (BFCs) containing a hexa-aza cage for labeling with metals having either imaging, therapeutic or contrast applications radiolabeling and one or more linkers (A) and (B). The compounds have the general formula08-05-2010
20100183593Gene Polymorphisms Predictive for Dual TKI Therapy - The invention provides compositions and methods for determining the likelihood of successful treatment with dual therapy such as lapatinib. The methods comprise determining the genomic polymorphism or expression level of a gene present in a predetermined region of a gene of interest and correlating the polymorphism or expression level to the predictive response. Patients identified as likely responsive are then treated with the appropriate therapy.07-22-2010
20100179453Upper Limb Measurement and Rehabilitation Method and System - A method for measuring an upper limb reaching capability of a user with an impaired limb is provided. Each upper limb is placed at a default position on a horizontal surface. A target is displayed from among a plurality of targets on the horizontal surface. One of the limbs reaches for the target. Limb choice, position information and elapsed time are sensed and recorded. The reaching limb is retracted to the default position. The displaying step through the retracting step are repeated for each of the plurality of targets, wherein each of the plurality of targets is spaced apart.07-15-2010
20100172886Method for Promoting Wound Healing - The present invention discloses a method for treating wounds and for accelerating the healing of wounds by administering an effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition containing type VII collagen protein, mini-C7 protein, variants thereof or any combinations thereof. The pharmaceutical composition may be administered through a variety of routes including intravenous injection, topical application, or oral ingestion. The method may further include administering a genetically modified fibroblast capable of expressing type VII collagen protein, mini-C7 protein, variants thereof or small growth factors to achieve synergistic healing effect.07-08-2010
20100171395CURVED ULTRASONIC ARRAY TRANSDUCERS - An ultrasonic array transducer having an array of piezoelectric elements may be made with a curvature which may enable the piezoelectric elements to control the way in which ultrasonic energy is focused by the transducer. A substrate that has a set of element electrodes on a surface of the substrate may be created. Each element electrode may be electrically isolated from the others and configured to correspond to the location of one of the piezoelectric elements. A piezoelectric component which includes piezoelectric material may be bonded to the substrate such that each element electrode is juxtaposed next to the piezoelectric component. The surface of the substrate and/or to the piezoelectric material may have the curvature while they are separated and prior to the bonding. The bonding may be performed in a manner that results in the array of piezoelectric elements having the curvature.07-08-2010
20100168646METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING ISCHEMIC DISEASES - The present invention relates to the treatment of ischemic diseases, and more particularly, to treatment of diabetic retinopathy and ischemia of the retinal and choroidal tissues. The treatment, which will work in vitrectomized eyes as well as non-vitrectomized eyes, is based on selective and fractional electrolysis of the vitreous humor to produce oxygen and optionally active chlorine while simultaneously controlling pH. Oxygen or active chlorine can suppress or reverse the onset of diabetic retinopathy, other retinovascular diseases, and choroidal neovascularization.07-01-2010
20100166727S-Adenosylmethionine And Methylthioadensosine In Chemoprevention And Treatment Of Colon Polyps And Cancer - The present invention relates to S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), methylthioadenosine (MTA) for the treatment of disease. More specifically, the invention relates to SAMe and MTA methods and compositions for the chemoprevention and treatment of colon polyps and cancer.07-01-2010
20100160313DISCOVERY OF NOVEL ANTICANCER COMPOUNDS BASED ON CONFORMATIONAL SAMPLING OF QUINOXALINHYDRAZIDE PHARMACOPHORE - The present invention relates in general to anti-cancer drug design. More specifically, the invention provides methods of mapping and screening for anti-cancer agents using pharmacophore models. The invention demonstrates that, conformational sampling of a small lead molecule, followed by representative pharmacophore model development, is an efficient approach for rational design of novel anticancer agents with similar or better potency than the original lead but with different physicochemical properties.06-24-2010
20100156195NANOSECOND PULSE GENERATOR WITH A PROTECTOR CIRCUIT - This invention relates to a pulse generator circuit for delivering a short high current pulse to a load. This pulse generator comprises a junction recovery diode, a switch, a first resonant circuit and a second resonant circuit. The diode may be configured to store charges in its depletion layer when there is a forward flow of a current and to rapidly switch open after the depletion layer is discharged by a reverse flow of a current. After the diode rapidly switch opens, the pulse generator may provide a reverse current to the load. This pulse generator may be configured to generate at least one pulse that is having a length of no more than 100 nanoseconds at the full-width-at-half-maximum and an amplitude of at least 1 kilovolt. Electrodes may be connected to the pulse generator to deliver one pulse or plurality of pulses to biological cells such as tumor cells.06-24-2010
20100150892PF4-DEPLETED PLATELET CONTAINING BLOOD PREPARATIONS AND RELATED KITS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR HARD AND SOFT TISSUE REPAIR - Methods of repairing and regenerating hard or soft tissue and reducing inflammation, anti-angiogenesis and anti-osteogenesis in a mammal and related methods of removing PF4 from platelets containing blood preparations. In one embodiment, the method comprises administering to a mammal platelets containing blood preparation where the PF4 has been reduced from the platelet containing blood preparation to repair and regenerate hard and soft tissue in the mammal.06-17-2010
20100144623C-Terminal Domain Truncation of mGluR1a By Calpain and Uses Thereof - A composition comprising a peptide or a peptidomimetic thereof that inhibits the C-terminal domain truncation of mGluR1α by calpain, wherein the peptide is 10-30 amino acids in length and contains a sequence that is at least 70% homologous to VIKPLTKSYQGSGK. Also disclosed are methods of detecting the C-terminal domain truncation of mGluR1α by calpain, methods of inhibiting the C-terminal domain truncation of mGluR1α in a neuron, and methods of identifying a compound that inhibits the C-terminal domain truncation of mGluR1α.06-10-2010
20100141043HIGH VOLTAGE NANOSECOND PULSE GENERATOR USING FAST RECOVERY DIODES FOR CELL ELECTRO-MANIPULATION - A pulse generator circuit may include a diode configured to operate as an opening switch, a tank circuit in series with the diode having an admittance that is switchable from a first value to a second value that is different from the first value, and a switching system configured to cause the tank circuit to switch between the first value and the second value. The diode may saturate in less than 100 nanoseconds. A saturable core transformer may operate as a switch that controls the opening of the diode. The pulse generator may generate a plurality of pulses, each having a length of no more than 3 nanoseconds and an amplitude of at least 1 kilovolt. Electrodes may be connected to the pulse generator to deliver the plurality of pulses to biological cells.06-10-2010
20100139418MEASUREMENT OF SLIDING FRICTION-INDUCED VIBRATIONS FOR BIOMIMETIC TACTILE SENSING - Tactile sensors are disclosed that mimic the human fingertip and its touch receptors. The mechanical components are similar to a fingertip, with a rigid core surrounded by a weakly conductive fluid contained within an elastomeric skin. The deformable properties of the finger pad can be used as part of a transduction process. Multiple electrodes can be mounted on the surface of the rigid core and connected to impedance measuring circuitry within the core. External forces deform the fluid path around the electrodes, resulting in a distributed pattern of impedance changes containing information about those forces and the objects that applied them. Strategies are described for extracting features related to the mechanical inputs and using this information for reflexive grip control. Controlling grip force in a prosthetic having sensory feedback information is described. Pressure transducers can provide sensory feedback by measuring micro-vibrations due to sliding friction.06-10-2010
20100127703TAILORED RADIOFREQUENCY PULSES FOR UNIFORM SATURATION IN MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING - Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to systems and methods for providing tailored RF pulse trains, based on estimated B0 and B1 profiles, for uniform saturation for MRI techniques. The tailored pulse trains are optimized to minimize residual longitudinal magnetization in target tissue. The B0 and B1 profiles can be measured a priori over a desired region of a patient, e.g., the heart, and can overcome or mitigate SAR and B1 inhomogeneity constraints. In exemplary embodiments, the tailored pulse trains can include hard pulses with unequal weighting. In other embodiments, the tailored pulse trains can include BIR-4 pulse trains that are optimized to minimize residual longitudinal magnetization in target tissue. The tailored pulse train designs can improve the immunity to B1 variation while maintaining low RF power. MRI systems, methods, and controllers for providing tailored pulse trains are described.05-27-2010
20100124747COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR DIAGNOSIS OR PROGNOSIS OF TESTICULAR CANCER - Provided are compositions and methods for diagnosis or prognosis of testicular or male germ-cell derived cancer, comprising: obtaining sperm DNA from a test subject; determining the methylation status of at least one CpG dinucleotide sequence of at least one gene sequence selected from HRAS, NTF3, MT1A, PAX8, DIRAS3, PLAGL1, SFN, SAT2CHRM1, MEST, RNR1, CYP27B1 and ICAM1; and thereby determining or diagnosing testicular or male germ-cell derived cancer. Provided are compositions and methods for identifying agents that cause testicular or male germ-cell derived cancer, comprising: obtaining human ES-cell derived primordial germ cells; contacting the germ cells or descendants thereof, with a test agent; culturing the contacted cells; determining, using a genomic DNA of the sample, the methylation status of at least one CpG dinucleotide sequence of at least one gene sequence selected from the above group; and identifying at least one test agent that causes testicular or male germ-cell derived cancer.05-20-2010
20100116368FLUID METERING DEVICE USING FREE-MOVING PISTON - A fluid metering device may meter the flow of fluid. The device may have a main chamber and a piston configured and oriented to reciprocate within the main chamber. The piston may be configured and oriented to define a first and a second sub-chamber whose volumes vary inversely as a function of the position of the piston during its reciprocation. The fluid metering device may have a first inlet valve configured to controllably regulate the flow of fluid into the first sub-chamber, a first outlet valve configured to controllably regulate the flow of fluid out of the first sub-chamber, a second inlet valve configured to controllably regulate the flow of fluid into the second sub-chamber, and a second outlet valve configured to controllably regulate the flow of fluid out of the second sub-chamber. A valve controller may be configured to control each of the values in a manner that causes fluid to flow through the each of the sub-chambers at an average rate that substantially tracks a control signal which is delivered to the valve controller.05-13-2010
20100116151TREATMENT OF FOOD MUST WITH LOW ENERGY, SHORT PULSED ELECTRIC FIELD - An apparatus for treating food must, such as grape must, may include a food must chamber configured to apply an electric pulse to the food must in a manner that causes an electric field to be generated within the food must. A pulse generator may be configured to deliver an electric pulse to the chamber that has a pulse width of between 10 and 100 nanoseconds. The chamber and the pulse generator may be configured such that they cause the electric field that is generated within the food must to be at least 1 kV/cm.05-13-2010
20100112119MULTI-CHAMBER VIBRATING VALVE FOR CEMENTITIOUS MATERIAL - A nozzle for extruding cementitious material may include an outlet sized and configured to extrude the cementitious material, a material flow pathway configured to channel the cementitious material to the outlet, and a vibration-actuated valve interposed in the material flow pathway. The valve may include a plurality of spaced-apart plates configured to form a plurality of flow channels, and a vibration-generating device coupled to the plates and configured to controllable cause the plates to controllably vibrate. The vibration-actuated valve may be configured such that the cementitious material must flow through the channels formed by the plates in order to reach the outlet, The spacing between the plates and the surface of the plates may be in amounts which collectively cause the flow of the cementitious material though the plurality of flow channels to be blocked when the vibration-generating device is not vibrating, and the cementitious material to flow through the plurality of flow channels simultaneously when the vibration-generating device is vibrating.05-06-2010
20100109665FAST VELOCITY MEASUREMENTS USING BALANCED SSFP MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING - Referenceless techniques for flow imaging are described that exploit a refocusing property of balanced steady state free precession (“SSFP”) magnetic resonance imaging (“MRI”), and achieve up to approximately a 50% reduction in total scan time. With the echo time set to one half of the sequence repetition time (TE=TR/2), non-flow-related image phase tends to vary smoothly across the field-of-view, and can be estimated from static tissue regions to produce a phase reference for nearby voxels containing flowing blood. These approaches produce accurate in vivo one-dimensional velocity estimates in half the scan time compared with conventional balanced SSFP phase-contrast methods. The feasibility of referenceless time-resolved 3D flow imaging (called “7D” flow) is demonstrated for a carotid bifurcation application from just three acquisitions. Related systems are also described. Other attributes such as blood acceleration can also be imaged with such techniques.05-06-2010
20100105525SYSTEM FOR ENCOURAGING A USER TO PERFORM SUBSTANTIAL PHYSICAL ACTIVITY - A system for encouraging a user to perform substantial physical activity. The system may include sensors that may be worn by the user while the user is performing a substantial physical activity, such as running or playing basketball. The sensors may detect the magnitude of the physical activity and may transmit data regarding the physical activity to a processing system. The processing system may display a reward to encourage the user for participating in physical activity and the reward provided may be based on the physical activity of the user.04-29-2010
20100105061AUTOIMMUNE GENES IDENTIFIED IN SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS (SLE) - The present invention relates to a genes and autoimmunity. More specifically, the invention relates to the identification of genes that are associated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in children and/or adults. Also disclosed are methods for making and using the genetic selection tool used to identify SLE associated genes, and their uses in diagnosis and treatment of the disease.04-29-2010
20100104583Gene Polymorphisms in VEGF and VEGF Receptor 2 as Markers for Cancer Therapy - The invention provides compositions and methods for determining the likelihood of successful treatment with anti-angiogenic antibodies or equivalent thereof, in combination with a pyrimidine based antimetabolite and a platinum-based alkylating agent based therapy. The methods comprise determining the genomic polymorphism present in a predetermined region of a gene of interest and correlating the polymorphism to the predictive response. Patients identified as responsive are then treated with the appropriate therapy.04-29-2010
20100102816EDDY-CURRENT ARTIFACT REDUCTION IN BALANCED STEADY-STATE FREE PRECESSION MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING - Magnetic resonance imaging techniques are described that utilize bSSFP sequences in which two or more gradient waveforms are interleaved in a “groupwise” fashion, i.e., each waveform is executed consecutively two or more times before switching to the other waveform, where “N” counts the number of times each waveform is executed consecutively. As a result, embodiments of the present disclosure can mitigate steady-state signal distortions or artifacts in interleaved balanced steady-state free precession (bSSFP) caused by slightly unbalanced eddy-current fields. Related MRI systems are also described.04-29-2010
20100099102Development of Diagnostic Markers From the Saliva of Head and Neck Cancer Patients - The present invention relates to biomarkers that are useful for the detection of cancer. The invention further relates to biomarkers and methods of using biomarkers for the early detection of head and neck cancer.04-22-2010
20100098312EXACT AND APPROXIMATE REBINNING OF TIME-OF-FLIGHT PET POSITRON EMISSION TOMOGRAPHY DATA - A technique for processing of data from time-of-flight (TOF) PET scanners. The size of TOF PET data may be reduced without significant loss of information through a process called rebinning. The rebinning may use the Fourier transform properties of the measured PET data, taken with respect to the time-of-flight variable, to perform data reduction. Through this rebinning process, TOF PET data may be converted to any of the following reduced representations: 2D TOF PET data, 3D non-TOF PET data, and 2D non-TOF PET data. Mappings may be exact or approximate. Approximate mappings may not require a Fourier transform in the axial direction which may have advantages when used with PET scanners of limited axial extent. Once TOF PET data is reduced in size using this rebinning, PET images may be reconstructed with hardware and/or software that is substantially less complex and that may run substantially faster in comparison to reconstruction from the original non-rebinned data.04-22-2010
20100092982Regulation of Gene Expression by Protein Methylation - The invention relates to the cDNA and deduced amino acid sequence of the Coactivator Associated arginine (R) Methyltransferase protein, CARM1. A method is described for the use CARM1 to regulate gene expression in vivo. CARM1 has also been used to methylate arginine residues of histones, synthetic peptides, and other proteins. A method to use CARM1 to screen for drugs that inhibit its methyltransferase activity is also described, as is a method to screen for drugs that modulate CARM1's interactions with other proteins.04-15-2010
20100092485Genetic Markers for Predicting Responsiveness to Combination Therapy - The invention provides compositions and methods for determining the likelihood of successful treatment with an effective amount of an anti-VEGF antibody or equivalent thereof, in combination with anti-EGFR antibody or equivalent thereof, and, in some aspects in combination with a topoisomerase inhibitor. The methods comprise determining the identity of a gene of interest in a patient sample and correlating the patient's genotype with the predictive response. Patients identified as responsive are then treated with the appropriate therapy.04-15-2010
20100086957METHOD FOR MONITORING INTRACELLULAR TYROSINE PHOSPHATASE ACTIVITY - The invention relates in general to tyrosine dephosphorylation. More specifically, the invention relates to methods and compositions for monitoring intracellular tyrosine dephosphorylation at the single cell level. The invention further relates to techniques that can be used as aid in the development of novel therapeutics, and monitor regulation of intracellular tyrosine phosphatase activity at the single cell level.04-08-2010
20100081141Genome-Wide Chromosome Conformation Capture - The invention relates to the use of GCC (Genome Conformation Capture) technology in determining the three dimensional arrangement of an entire genome.04-01-2010
20100062527INDUCTION, PROPAGATION AND ISOLATION OF LIVER PROGENITOR CELLS - The present invention relates to methods of induction and isolation of progenitor cells from stem cell cultures, specifically liver progenitor cells from human embryonic stem cell cultures. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of inducing hepatocyte-like progenitor cells by placing a quantity of human embryonic stem cells in a medium supplemented with an inhibitor of the MAPK/MEK/ERK signaling pathway, FGFR, GSK3 and/or BMP.03-11-2010
20100047695Lithium-Ion Electrolytes Containing Flame Retardant Additives for Increased Safety Characteristics - The invention discloses various embodiments of Li-ion electrolytes containing flame retardant additives that have delivered good performance over a wide temperature range, good cycle life characteristics, and improved safety characteristics, namely, reduced flammability. In one embodiment of the invention there is provided an electrolyte for use in a lithium-ion electrochemical cell, the electrolyte comprising a mixture of an ethylene carbonate (EC), an ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC), a fluorinated co-solvent, a flame retardant additive, and a lithium salt. In another embodiment of the invention there is provided an electrolyte for use in a lithium-ion electrochemical cell, the electrolyte comprising a mixture of an ethylene carbonate (EC), an ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC), a flame retardant additive, a solid electrolyte interface (SEI) film forming agent, and a lithium salt.02-25-2010
20100036131N-HETEROCYCLIC CARBENE-AMIDO PALLADIUM(II) CATALYSTS AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF - A new N-heterocyclic catalyst system which contains N-heterocyclic carbene and amido as ligands, which are strongly bound to a palladium metal. Another heteroatom functionality can be used as a third ligand L. The NHC-amidate ligand system is unique in structure, and shows excellent reactivities in a number of chemical reactions. The chemical reactions include carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom (oxygen and nitrogen) bond formations, and oxidation reactions of saturated carbon chemicals via C—H activation.02-11-2010
20100035815SKIN WOUND HEALING COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - A wound healing composition comprising an amount of heat shock protein effective to promote wound healing and a method thereof to apply the composition. A preferred heat shock protein is either full-length hsp90α or the middle domain plus the charged sequence of hsp90α. The composition is topically applied to skin wounds, covering the outer surface of the wound. The heat shock protein acts by promoting migration of both human epidermal keratinocyte and dermal fibroblasts to the wound in order to close, heal, and remodel the wound.02-11-2010
20100034462Automated Single Viewpoint Human Action Recognition by Matching Linked Sequences of Key Poses - An automated human action recognition system may automatically recognize one or more actions of a human from 2D input image data representing a sequential series of input images of the human performing the one or more actions. Each input image may be from an unknown viewpoint. A computer memory system may contain 2D reference image data representing a plurality of reference actions which a human may perform. The 2D reference image data may include a plurality of linked sequences of key poses, including a linked sequence of key poses for each reference action. For each reference action, each key pose within the linked sequence of key poses for the reference action may consist essentially of 2D image data that is representative of a human figure performing the reference action at a selected point during the reference action. The timing of the selected points within the linked sequence of key poses for the reference action may be based on changes in the position of the human figure during the performance of the reference action. The linked sequence of key poses for the reference action may uniquely distinguish it from the linked sequence of key poses for all of the other reference actions. A computer processing system may be configured to determine which of the reference actions best matches the 2D input image data with no knowledge of the viewpoint of the 2D input image data.02-11-2010
20100026957Ocular Imaging System - An imaging system for examining the interior structure of the eye at high-resolution under ambient light without the need for chemical dilation of the pupil.02-04-2010
20100015128GRP78 as a Predictor of Responsiveness to Therapeutic Agents - The present application provides methods for detecting, diagnosing, monitoring, predicting responsiveness to therapeutic agents and staging cancer. The present application provides methods and compositions useful for suppression of GRP78 expression or activity in cancer cells to overcome resistance of certain therapeutic agents. The present application also provides methods for predicting whether a subject with cancer is at risk for developing resistance to certain therapeutic agents.01-21-2010
20100009365PROCESS FOR HIGH-THROUGHPUT DNA METHYLATION ANALYSIS - There is disclosed an improved high-throughput and quantitative process for determining methylation patterns in genomic DNA samples based on amplifying modified nucleic acid, and detecting methylated nucleic acid based on amplification-dependent displacement of specifically annealed hybridization probes. Specifically, the inventive process provides for treating genomic DNA samples with sodium bisulfite to create methylation-dependent sequence differences, followed by detection with fluorescence-based quantitative PCR techniques. The process is particularly well suited for the rapid analysis of a large number of nucleic acid samples, such as those from collections of tumor tissues01-14-2010
20100004309Dietary Compositions and Methods for Protection Against Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy, Oxidative Stress, and Aging - The present invention relates to dietary compositions comprising reduced level of methionine, tryptophan, all amino acids, or protein, dietary compositions comprising glycerol as a substitute for monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides, and hypocaloric or calorie free diets with reduced level of energy, carbohydrates, or protein. Also disclosed are methods of using these compositions and diets, as well as fasting, to protect subjects against chemotherapy, radiotherapy, oxidative stress, or aging.01-07-2010
20090326401Method and System for Dynamical Systems Modeling of Electrocardiogram Data - Electrocardiogram data is received in association with a subject, the electrocardiogram data comprising a series of RR intervals and a series of QT intervals. A first value which indicates an amount by which uncertainty associated with the QT intervals is reduced given the RR intervals is generated. A second value which indicates an amount by which uncertainty associated with the RR intervals is reduced given the QT intervals is generated. The subject is determined to be associated with a low risk of cardiac dysfunction responsive to the first value exceeding the second value and a result of the determination is provided.12-31-2009
20090325314N-Methyl Scanning Mutagenesis - The present invention relates to methods and compositions comprising the insertion of a single N-methyl amino acid into functional peptides. More specifically, the invention discloses methods referred to as N-methyl scanning mutagenesis, where one or more N-methyl amino acid substitutions into functional peptides enhances protease resistance while retaining binding affinity.12-31-2009
20090318805BREATHING CIRCUIT WITH EMBEDDED ACOUSTIC REFLECTOMETER - An instrument may continuously monitoring acoustic reflections from within and/or beyond an intubation tube positioned within the mouth of a patient while the patient is breathing. The instrument may include an acoustic reflectometer configured to detect the acoustic reflections. An acoustic flow channel may contain the acoustic reflectometer within it. The acoustic flow channel may be configured to acoustically couple the acoustic reflectometer to an end of the intubation tube, but to substantially block the free flow of expiratory gas from the end of the intubation tube through the acoustic flow channel. A gas flow channel may be separate from the acoustic flow channel and may be configured to allow the free flow of expiratory gas from the end of the intubation tube through the gas flow channel.12-24-2009
20090313576PHRASE-DRIVEN GRAMMAR FOR DATA VISUALIZATION - A data visualization system may allow an untrained user to easily, rapidly, and unambiguously specify the content and format of a report about information. A user interface may present to a user and receive from the user a selection of a plurality of selectable visualization types, selectable data objects, and selectable data specifications. The user interface may display all of the selections which the user makes as a single composite phrase.12-17-2009
20090313353COPYRIGHTED CONTENT DELIVERY OVER P2P FILE-SHARING NETWORKS - A copyright protection system for large scale content delivery over peer-to-peer P2P networks is disclosed. The system may integrate the complementary protections of a peer authorization protocol (PAP), selective content distribution and poisoning, and peer collusion detection. The system may include a transaction server computing system coupled to a P2P network and configured to enable users on the P2P network to conduct transactions for acquiring digital content to thereby become authorized clients for the digital content; and a plurality of distribution agent computing systems coupled to the central server and the P2P network, each distribution agent configured to store and distribute said digital content to said authorized clients distinguish authorized clients from unauthorized peers using a peer authorization protocol (PAP), selectively distribute poisoned versions of the digital content to unauthorized peers while distributing the digital content in a clean form to the authorized clients, cause a random plurality of the authorized clients to send download requests for a copyright protected file to other peers suspected of being unauthorized, receive, from one or more of the suspected other peers, clean copies of the file in response to the download requests; and identify the one or more suspected other peers as unauthorized peers.12-17-2009
20090311201LIPOXIN ANALOGS AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE - This invention provides new lipoxin analogs, compositions containing analogs, and methods of using these compounds and compositions for treating and preventing oral inflammation, including gingivitis, periodontitis, and other forms of periodontal disease. The invention also provides for methods of treating and preventing oral inflammation, including gingivitis, periodontitis, and other forms of periodontal disease with compositions containing COX-2 inhibitors. Further, the invention provides methods for preventing systemic diseases beyond theoral cavity that are related to periodontal disease using the composition containing lipoxin analogs, COX-2 inhibitors, or both.12-17-2009
20090309725SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SECURITY BREACH DETECTION - A system for detecting and classifying a security breach may include at least one sensor configured to detect seismic vibration from a source, and to generate an output signal that represents the detected seismic vibration. The system may further include a controller that is configured to extract a feature vector from the output signal of the sensor and to measure one or more likelihoods of the extracted feature vector relative to set {b12-17-2009
20090303249HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE IMAGE EDITING - A high dynamic range image editing system for editing an image file having pixels spanning a first range of light intensity levels in an image editing system that only displays differences in the light intensity levels of pixels within a second range of light intensity levels that is less than the first range of light intensity levels, without reducing the range of light intensity levels in the image file.12-10-2009
20090298188MEASUREMENT OF A DICARBOXYLATE IN URINE SAMPLES AS A NOVEL BIOMARKER OF KIDNEY DAMAGE - The present invention relates in general to the discovery of urinary succinate as a novel biomarker of kidney disease. More specifically, the invention provides for the measurement of succinate in urine samples that has great potential for the easy and early diagnosis of kidney damage and would allow early prediction of kidney disease and therapeutic intervention.12-03-2009
20090288059CLUSTERING AND FANOUT OPTIMIZATIONS OF ASYNCHRONOUS CIRCUITS - Techniques are described for generating asynchronous circuits from any arbitrary HDL representation of a synchronous circuit by automatically clustering the synthesized gates into pipeline stages that are then slack-matched to meet performance goals while minimizing area. Automatic pipelining can be provided in which the throughput of the overall design is not limited to the clock frequency or the level of pipelining in the original RTL specification. The techniques are applicable to many asynchronous design styles. A model and infrastructure can be designed that guides clustering to avoid the introduction of deadlocks and achieve a target circuit performance. Slack matching models can be used to take advantage of fanout optimizations of buffer trees that improve the quality of the results.11-19-2009
20090288058POWER AWARE ASYNCHRONOUS CIRCUITS - Techniques are described for converting netlists for synchronous circuits such as combinational modules, flip flops (or latches), and clock gating modules, to netlist of asynchronous modules. Processes including algorithms are described that bundle multiple modules in an enable domain, so that they are activated only if the incoming enable token to the enable domain has the UPDATE value. The modules can be clustered inside an enable domain, so that each cluster has a separate controller. The objective function of bundling and clustering can minimize power consumption with respect to a given cycle time. Exemplary embodiments can include a gated multilevel domino template.11-19-2009
20090272201ENHANCEMENTS TO IMPROVE THE FUNCTION OF A BIOMIMETIC TACTILE SENSOR - Tactile sensors are disclosed that mimic the human fingertip and its touch receptors. The mechanical components are similar to a fingertip, with a rigid core surrounded by a weakly conductive fluid contained within an elastomeric skin. The deformable properties of the finger pad can be used as part of a transduction process. Multiple electrodes can be mounted on the surface of the rigid core and connected to impedance measuring circuitry within the core. External forces deform the fluid path around the electrodes, resulting in a distributed pattern of impedance changes containing information about those forces and the objects that applied them. Strategies are described for extracting features related to the mechanical inputs and using this information for reflexive grip control. Controlling grip force in a prosthetic having sensory feedback information is described. Techniques are described for enhancing the useful force range for impedance sensors by internally texturing the elastomeric skin.11-05-2009
20090256563PREPARING THE MAGNETIZATION STATE OF A SAMPLE FOR ALTERNATING REPETITION TIME STEADY STATE FREE PRECESSION MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING - Techniques and systems for magnetic resonance imaging. In one aspect, preparatory pulse sequences precede alternating repetition time steady state free precession (ATR SSFP) pulse sequences to enable image acquisition before reaching a steady-state equilibrium. The design of the preparatory sequences is based on a two step process: First an oscillatory residue is expressed in terms of a window (e.g., a Kaiser-Bessel window) and scale parameters. Second the oscillatory residue is minimized to determine the scale parameters according to a desired application (e.g. ATR SSFP, optimized for fat, water, etc.) The preparation scheme described in this specification can be applied to arbitrary repetition times and RF phase cycling combinations.10-15-2009
20090256141ORGANIC PHOTOSENSITIVE OPTOELECTRONIC DEVICES CONTAINING TETRA-AZAPORPHYRINS - Embodiments of the present invention provide an organic photosensitive optoelectronic device comprising at least one tetra-azaporphyrin compound of formula (I) are disclosed herein.10-15-2009
20090247766Substituted Nitrogen Heterocycles and Synthesis and Uses Thereof - The invention relates to a nitrogen heterocycle compound of formula 1:10-01-2009
20090246802ANNEXIN-BASED APOPTOSIS MARKERS - The present invention describes an annexin derivative and a method of using the annexin derivative as a biosensor for real-time visualization of phosphatidylserine exposure, apoptosis, live-cell imaging and monitoring of cell health.10-01-2009
20090246790PROGNOSTIC PANEL FOR URINARY BLADDER CANCER - The present invention relates to methods of prognosing urothelial carcinoma. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of prognosing urothelial carcinoma by determining expression levels of JUN, MAP2K6, STAT3 and/or ICAM1. In another embodiment, the present invention provides an single prognostic panel made up of eight gene markers. In another embodiment, the present invention provides a single prognostic panel made up of eleven gene markers.10-01-2009
20090246771COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS COMPRISING BIOMARKERS OF SPERM QUALITY, SEMEN QUALITY AND FERTILITY - Provided are compositions and methods for determining or diagnosing abnormal sperm or fertility, comprising: obtaining sperm DNA from a test subject; determining the methylation status of at least one CpG dinucleotide sequence of at least one gene sequence selected from HRAS, NTF3, MT1A, PAX8, DIRAS3, PLAGL1, SFN, SAT2CHRM1, MEST, RNR1, CYP27B1 and ICAM1; and thereby determining or diagnosing abnormal sperm or fertility. Provided are compositions and methods for identifying agents that cause spermatogenic deficits or abnormal sperm fertility, comprising: obtaining human ES-cell derived primordial germ cells; contacting the germ cells or descendants thereof, with a test agent; culturing the contacted cells; determining, using a genomic DNA of the sample, the methylation status of at least one CpG dinucleotide sequence of at least one gene sequence selected from the above group; and identifying at least one test agent that causes at least one of spermatogenic deficits, abnormal sperm, and abnormal fertility.10-01-2009
20090246761DEVELOPMENT OF PROGNOSTIC MARKERS FROM THE SALIVA OF HEAD AND NECK CANCER PATIENTS - The present invention relates to biomarkers that are useful for the detection of cancer. The invention further relates to biomarkers and methods of using biomarkers for the early detection of head and neck cancer.10-01-2009
20090245691ESTIMATING POSE OF PHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGES IN 3D EARTH MODEL USING HUMAN ASSISTANCE - The pose of a photographic image of a portion of Earth may be estimated using human assistance. A 3D graphics engine may render a virtual image of Earth from a controllable viewpoint based on 3D data that is representative of a 3D model of at least a portion of Earth. A user may locate and display a corresponding virtual image of Earth at a viewpoint that approximately corresponds to the pose of the photographic image by manipulating user controls. The photographic image and the corresponding virtual image may be overlaid on one another so that both images can be seen at the same time. The user may adjust the pose of one of the images while overlaid on the other image by manipulating user controls so that both images appear to substantially align with one another. The settings of the user controls may be converted to pose data that is representative of the pose of the photographic image within the 3D model.10-01-2009
20090240148ULTRASONIC APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR REAL-TIME SIMULTANEOUS THERAPY AND DIAGNOSIS - For noninvasive treatment of tissue using high intensity focused ultrasound, composite imaging and therapy acoustic techniques are described. Embodiments include an integrated multi-functional confocal array and a strategy to perform both imaging and therapy simultaneously with this array by using coded excitation techniques with/without a notch filter. An exemplary array embodiment includes a triple-row phased array with one array in the center row for imaging and two arrays in the outer rows for therapy. Different types of piezoelectric materials and stack configurations may be employed to maximize the respective therapy and imaging functionalities. Reflected therapeutic signals that would otherwise corrupt the quality of imaging signals received by the center-row array can be mitigated or removed by use of the coding and/or a notch filter when B-mode images are formed during therapy. A 13-bit Barker code is preferred for implementing coded excitation, although other codes or compression techniques may be used.09-24-2009
20090220702METHOD FOR PREPARING METAL OXIDE CRYSTALLINE NANOPARTICLE FILMS FOR DYE SENSITIZED SOLAR CELL PHOTOANODES - A method for manufacturing a dye sensitized nanocrystal film having the steps of exposing a tin oxide layer on a surface of a substrate to a flame for a time sufficient to form a layer of mesoporous, crystalline titanium oxide on the fluorinated tin oxide layer followed by sintering the substrate at a temperature of from about 300 to about 500° C. The flame contains a fuel gas, such as ethylene and oxygen and titanium organometallic. The concentration of titanium organometallic is from about 10 to about 2000 ppm. During the flame exposure step, the substrate is rotated about a central axis at a speed of from about 100 to about 600 RPM, and the flame is kept at a constant distance from the surface of the substrate. The temperature of the substrate is maintained at a temperature of less than 200° C. via the rotation and jets of gas.09-03-2009
20090210841STATIC TIMING ANALYSIS OF TEMPLATE-BASED ASYNCHRONOUS CIRCUITS - Effective timing and power characterization flows are described for asynchronous circuits. Verification can be provided for both relative-timing constraints as well as performance (e.g., throughput) targets using commercially-standard STA tools. Fully-automated scripts are developed that verify all relative timing assumptions (e.g., isochronic forks) as well as the gate-level performance of any circuit designed with these templates. Library characterization can be utilized and asynchronous logic cells not found in standard-cell libraries, such as dual-rail domino logic and dynamic C-elements with staticizers, can be characterized in terms of both their timing and power. These values are a function of both input slew and output load and are preferably captured in an industry standard format, such as the Liberty format, before being compatible with commercial STA tools. Using a characterized library, timing correctness and performance of an asynchronous circuit can be analyzed either through back-annotated simulations or preferably static analysis.08-20-2009
20090203991MULTIPLE IMAGING AND/OR SPECTROSCOPIC MODALITY PROBE - The apparatus and methods described herein enable an operator to simultaneously collect images and spectroscopic information from a region(s) of interest using a multiple modality imaging and/or spectroscopic probe, configured as a catheter, endoscope, microscope, or hand held probe. The device may incorporate, for example, an ultrasonic transducer and a fiber optic probe to translate images and spectra. The apparatus and methods may be used in any suitable cavity, for example, the vascular system of a mammal.08-13-2009
20090197811ORALLY ADMINISTERED PEPTIDES TO IMPROVE OR PREVENT HEPATIC FIBROSIS - The present invention generally relates to liver disease. More specifically the invention provides compositions and methods, including D-4F, that are useful in treating or preventing hepatic fibrosis.08-06-2009
20090192493IMPLANTABLE DRUG-DELIVERY DEVICES, AND APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR REFILLING THE DEVICES - In various embodiments, a needle is employed in refilling drug-delivery devices.07-30-2009
20090191175THERAPEUTIC METHODS USING PEG-CONJUGATED AGENTS AND DEVICES FOR PERFORMING THE SAME - The present invention discloses methods and devices for selectively removing anti-PEG antibodies from a patient's blood prior to administration of a PEG-conjugated therapeutic agent so as to prevent immune reactions against the PEG-conjugated therapeutic agents when the agents are administered as a therapeutic regimen. Removal of anti-PEG antibodies may be physical, in which anti-PEG antibodies are physically removed from the blood through an extracorporeal blood circuit connected to an anti-PEG antibody removal device, or functional, in which an anti-PEG inactivating agent is infused into the patient's blood stream prior to administration of the PEG-conjugated therapeutic agent. Also disclosed is a device for selectively removing anti-PEG antibodies from a blood stream and system incorporating the device.07-30-2009
20090170163SPACERS TO INCREASE THE EXPRESSION OF RECOMBINANT FUSION PROTEINS - The present invention relates to fusion proteins. The invention specifically relates to compositions and methods of Tf-based fusion proteins that demonstrate a high-level expression of transferrin (Tf)-based fusion proteins by inserting a helical linker between two protein domains.07-02-2009
20090165295Electrochemical Fabrication Methods Incorporating Dielectric Materials and/or Using Dielectric Substrates - Various embodiments are directed to the electrochemical fabrication of multilayer mesoscale or microscale structures which are formed using at least one conductive structural material, at least one conductive sacrificial material, and at least one dielectric material. In some embodiments the dielectric material is a UV-curable photopolymer. In other embodiments, electrochemically fabricated structures are formed on dielectric substrates.07-02-2009
20090156940DUAL-LAYER TRANSDUCER FOR RECTILINEAR OR CURVILINEAR THREE-DIMENSIONAL BROADBAND ULTRASOUND - Dual-layer acoustic transducer array designs, related fabrication methods, and ultrasound imaging techniques are described. The designs include two perpendicular 1-D arrays for clinical 3-D acoustic imaging of targets near the transducer. These targets can include the breast, carotid artery, prostate, and musculoskeletal system among others. The transducer designs reduce the fabrication complexity and the channel count making 3-D rectilinear imaging more realizable. With such designs, an effective N×N 2-D array can be developed using only N transmitters and N receivers. This benefit becomes very significant when N becomes greater than 128, for example. Embodiments/aspects of the present disclosure are directed to fabricating and interconnecting 2-D arrays with a large number of elements (>5,000) for 3-D rectilinear imaging.06-18-2009
20090154983MULTI-COLOR WRITING AND PAINTING INSTRUMENTS WITH SINGLE NIB FED WITH USER-SELECTED COLORED INK - A multicolor writing and painting instrument for writing and painting on a writing surface may include an ink-receiving surface which may be configured to receive a flow of one of a plurality of different colored inks. The instrument may include a nib configured to deliver the flow of ink received by the ink-receiving surface to the writing surface. The instrument may include a separate ink reservoir configured to hold each of the different colored inks. The instrument may include a fluid delivery system configured to controllably channel ink from any one of the ink reservoirs to the ink-receiving surface. The instrument may include a color selection control configured to enable a user to select one of the colored inks and to cause the fluid delivery system to deliver the selected colored ink from the reservoir which is holding this ink to the ink-receiving surface.06-18-2009
20090154982MULTICOLOR WRITING AND PAINTING INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE, BUNDLED, HARD, WEAR-RESISTANT NIBS - A multicolor writing and painting instrument may include a plurality of hard, wear-resistant nibs at an end of the tubular housing. Each nib may have a tip. The nibs may be bundled together such that the tips of the nibs lie in substantially the same plane and approximately on the circumference of a common circle. The instrument may include an ink reservoir for each of the nibs within the tubular housing. Each ink reservoir may be configured to hold a colored ink.06-18-2009
20090143718PLASMA TREATMENT PROBE - A plasma treatment probe may include a hollow, tubular electrode defining an interior region, and a coaxial insulating tube configured to enclose the electrode. The insulating tube may form a gas flow outlet at one end. An outer chamber may enclose the insulating tube and the hollow electrode, and may have a gas inlet for receiving a gas mixture. The hollow electrode may be configured to receive nanosecond electric pulses, while a gas mixture flows from the gas inlet through the interior region of the electrode, so that a non-thermal plasma can be ignited that exits from the gas flow outlet onto a region of a patient's body to medically treat the region.06-04-2009
20090141957SIDELOBE SUPPRESSION IN ULTRASOUND IMAGING USING DUAL APODIZATION WITH CROSS-CORRELATION - Sidelobe and clutter suppression techniques in ultrasound imaging are described and referred to as Dual Apodization with Cross-correlation or “DAX”. DAX dramatically improves the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) allowing for easier visualization of anechoic cysts and blood vessels. These techniques use dual apodization or weighting strategies that are effective in removing or minimizing clutter and efficient in terms of computational load and hardware/software needs. This dual apodization allows for determination of the amount of mainlobe versus clutter contribution in a signal by cross-correlating RF data acquired from two apodization functions.06-04-2009
20090136921Association of Breast Cancer DNA Methylation Profiles with Hormone Receptor Status and Response to Tamoxifen - Particular embodiments provide novel and clinically useful DNA methylation predictors of hormone receptor status, and predictors of response to endocrine (e.g., hormonal) and non-endocrine breast cancer therapy. The ESR1 gene, encoding the estrogen receptor (ER) alpha proved to be the preferred predictor of progesterone receptor (PR) status, while methylation of the PGR gene, encoding PR, was the preferred predictor of ER status. ESR1 methylation outperformed hormone receptor status as a predictor of clinical response in patients treated with antiestroges (e.g., tamoxifen), while promoter methylation of the CYP1B1 gene, encoding a tamoxifen and estradiol metabolizing cytochrome P450, predicted response differentially in tamoxifen-treated and non-treated patients. High levels of promoter methylation of the ARHI gene, encoding a RAS-related small G-protein, were shown to be preferred predictors of better survival in patients who had not received tamoxifen therapy.05-28-2009
20090134540TECHNIQUES FOR SENSING MATERIAL FLOW RATE IN AUTOMATED EXTRUSION - An extrusion construction system may include an extrusion nozzle, a channeling element coupled to the extrusion nozzle and to a source of construction material, the channeling element configured to transport the material to the extrusion nozzle for extruding the material onto a surface, wherein a surface of the channeling element comprises a transparent substrate such that a flow of the material is viewable through the substrate, an imaging device configured to capture a plurality of images through the substrate of the material flow, and a controller configured to estimate a flow rate based on the plurality of images.05-28-2009
20090134539TECHNIQUES FOR SENSING MATERIAL FLOW RATE IN AUTOMATED EXTRUSION - An extrusion construction system may include an extrusion nozzle configured to extrude construction material through an outlet onto an external surface, the extrusion nozzle including an excess flow port disposed substantially adjacent an edge of the outlet, an imaging device coupled to the extrusion nozzle, and a controller configured to adjust the rate of material flow through the extrusion nozzle in response to receiving one or more images captured by the imaging device showing excess material being extruded through the excess flow port.05-28-2009
20090133508Biomimetic Tactile Sensor for Control of Grip - Disclosed is a robust tactile sensor array that mimics the human fingertip and its touch receptors. The mechanical components are similar to a fingertip, with a rigid core surrounded by a weakly conductive fluid contained within an elastomeric skin. It uses the deformable properties of the finger pad as part of the transduction process. Multiple electrodes are mounted on the surface of the rigid core and connected to impedance measuring circuitry within the core. External forces deform the fluid path around the electrodes, resulting in a distributed pattern of impedance changes containing information about those forces and the objects that applied them. Strategies for extracting features related to the mechanical inputs and using this information for reflexive grip control.05-28-2009
20090131736SPINAL INJURY IMAGING BY MAGNETICALLY LEVITATED SENSORS - A system for detecting a spinal injury region containing injured spinal nerve cells may include a swarm of nanosensors that are configured to detect chemical signals released by the injured spinal nerve cells, and are coated with a magnetic material. A magnetic field generator may controllably generate a magnetic field so as to magnetically levitate the magnetically coated nanosensors. An imaging subsystem may detect the positions of the nanosensors. A controller may control the intensity and direction of the magnetic field in a feedback loop, in response to the detected positions of the nanosensors, so that the attractive force that attracts each nanosensor toward the injured spinal cell as a result of the chemical affinity of the nanosensor is iteratively supplemented by the magnetic levitation force applied to that nanosensor, until substantially all of the nanosensors are agglutinated around the spinal injury region.05-21-2009
20090123915HIGH THROUGHPUT METHODS COMPRISING ANALYSIS OF REPETITIVE ELEMENT DNA METHYLATION - Preferred aspects provide novel high-throughput, sensitive methods (e.g., real-time PCR-based (MethyLight™) reactions) for detection and/or measurement of global genomic 5-methylcytosine content, based on measurement of DNA methylation of Alu, LINE-1 repetitive sequences, and the chromosome 1 centromeric satellite alpha and juxtacentromeric satellite 2 repeat sequences. Additional aspects provide sensitive methods for determining the amount of a DNA (e.g., in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues). Combined (mean) use of Alu and Sat2 repeat methylation measurements provides for a surprisingly close correlation with global genomic 5-methylcytosine content measurements obtained by HPLC. Methylation of Alu repeats was determined to be closely associated with HPLC-based global methylation levels, as was methylation of satellite 2 and LINE-1 global genomic 5-methylcytosine content. The assays provide surrogate markers for global genomic 5-methylcytosine content analyses, and have substantial utility for high-throughput and population-based studies (e.g., genetic and dietary influences on global DNA methylation, folate deficiency, MTHFR gene polymorphisms, etc).05-14-2009
20090123895ENHANCED LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS WITH CREATIVE TECHNOLOGIES (ELECT) BILATERAL NEGOTIATION (BILAT) SYSTEM - Methods, systems, and software are described of game-based simulations for students (such as soldiers) to practice conducting bilateral engagements in a cultural context. An embodiment provides students with the experience of preparing for and including familiarization with cultural context, gathering intelligence, conducting a meeting and negotiating when possible, and following up on agreements as appropriate. Embodiments enable the use of characters, scenario customization, as well as coaching, feedback and tutoring.05-14-2009
20090119239Agent security via approximate solvers - Efficient heuristic methods are described for approximating the optimal leader strategy for security domains where threats come from unknown adversaries. These problems can be modeled as Bayes-Stackelberg games. An embodiment of the heuristic method can include defining a patrolling or security domain problem as a mixed-integer quadratic program. The mixed-integer quadratic program can be converted to a mixed-integer linear program. For a single follower (e.g., robber or terrorist) scenario, the mixed-integer linear program can be solved, subject to appropriate constraints. For embodiments applicable to multiple follower situations, the relevant mixed-integer quadratic program and related mixed-integer linear program can be decomposed, e.g., by changing the response function for the follower from a pure strategy to a weighted combination over various pure follower strategies where the weights are probabilities of occurrence of each of the follower types.05-07-2009
20090115635DETECTION AND CLASSIFICATION OF RUNNING VEHICLES BASED ON ACOUSTIC SIGNATURES - A method and apparatus for identifying running vehicles in an area to be monitored using acoustic signature recognition. The apparatus includes an input sensor for capturing an acoustic waveform produced by a vehicle source, and a processing system. The waveform is digitized and divided into frames. Each frame is filtered into a plurality of gammatone filtered signals. At least one spectral feature vector is computed for each frame. The vectors are integrated across a plurality of frames to create a spectro-temporal representation of the vehicle waveform. In a training mode, values from the spectro-temporal representation are used as inputs to a Nonlinear Hebbian learning function to extract acoustic signatures and synaptic weights. In an active mode, the synaptic weights and acoustic signatures are used as patterns in a supervised associative network to identify whether a vehicle is present in the area to be monitored. In response to a vehicle being present, the class of vehicle is identified. Results may be provided to a central computer.05-07-2009
20090112784TILE ARCHITECTURAL STYLE FOR PRIVACY-PRESERVED DISTRIBUTED COMPUTING - A method and system for privacy-preserved distributed computing on large networks using a tile-based architecture is disclosed. An expression for a tile seed assembly characterizing a problem, such as an NP-complete problem, may be determined. The solution to the tile seed assembly is a full tile assembly including a plurality of tile types. In a network of participating nodes, a tile type may be assigned to each node. A description of a tile type specific to a node may be provided to each node. A tile seed assembly may be established on selected nodes. Through progressive recruitment and replication, the tile assembly may mature, in response to the problem being solvable, into a full tile assembly having a solution. The solution may be received by the client computer.04-30-2009
20090099987DECOMPOSED OPTIMAL BAYESIAN STACKELBERG SOLVER - Techniques are described for Stackelberg games, in which one agent (the leader) must commit to a strategy that can be observed by other agents (the followers or adversaries) before they choose their own strategies, in which the leader is uncertain about the types of adversaries it may face. Such games are important in security domains, where, for example, a security agent (leader) must commit to a strategy of patrolling certain areas, and robbers (followers) have a chance to observe this strategy over time before choosing their own strategies of where to attack. An efficient exact algorithm is described for finding the optimal strategy for the leader to commit to in these games. This algorithm, Decomposed Optimal Bayesian Stackelberg Solver or “DOBSS,” is based on a novel and compact mixed-integer linear programming formulation. The algorithm can be implemented in a method, software, and/or system including computer or processor functionality.04-16-2009
20090093489NOVEL COMPOUNDS FOR TREATMENT OF CANCER AND DISORDERS ASSOCIATED WITH ANGIOGENESIS FUNCTION - Novel compounds for treatment of cancer and disorders associated with angiogenesis function. Also disclosed are a method of preparing the compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and packaged products containing the compounds, a method of using these molecules to treat cancer (e.g., leukemia, non-small cell lung cancer, colon cancer, CNS cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, renal cancer, and prostate cancer) and disorders associated with angiogenesis function (e.g., age-related macular degeneration, macular dystrophy, and diabetes), a method of monitoring the treatment, a method of profiling gene expression, and a method of modulating cell growth, cell cycle, apoptosis, or gene expression.04-09-2009
20090089022Modeling Nonlinear Systems - Systems and techniques, including machine-readable instructions, for modeling of nonlinear systems. In one aspect, an apparatus includes a collection of two or more inputs configured and arranged to receive input signals, a collection of two or more outputs configured and arranged to output output signals, a processing unit configured to transform the input signals into the output signals, wherein the transformation is non-linear and treats the non-linear system as a collection of multiple input, single output non-linear systems, and a data storage that stores characteristics of the transformation.04-02-2009
20090088843FUNCTIONAL ABIOTIC NANOSYSTEMS - The invention relates to imparting photoreactivity to target cells, e.g., retinal cells, by introducing photoresponsive functional abiotic nanosystems (FANs), nanometer-scale semiconductor/metal or semiconductor/semiconductor hetero-junctions that in this case include a photovoltaic effect. The invention further provides methods of making and using FANs, where the hetero-junctions bear surface functionalization that localizes them in cell membranes. Illumination of these hetero-junctions incorporated in cell membranes generates photovoltages that depolarize the membranes, such as those of nerve cells, in which FANs photogenerate action potentials. Incorporating FANs into the cells of a retina with damaged photoreceptor cells reintroduces photoresponsiveness to the retina, so that light creates action potentials that the brain interprets as sight.04-02-2009
20090088420COMPOUNDS WITH HIV-1 INTEGRASE INHIBITORY ACTIVITY AND USE THEREOF AS ANTI-HIV/AIDS THERAPEUTICS - Pharmacophore models to be used in drug design and discovery are provided. An in silico protocol and in vitro assays are presented. Compounds and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts with HIV-1 integrase inhibitory and anti-HIV activity and use thereof in the treatment of HIV/AIDS and related infections either alone or in combination with all the known antiretroviral therapeutics are described.04-02-2009
20090077666Value-Adaptive Security Threat Modeling and Vulnerability Ranking - Among others, techniques and systems are disclosed for analyzing security threats associated with software and computer vulnerabilities. Stakeholder values relevant for a software system are identified. The identified stakeholder values are quantified using a quantitative decision making approach to prioritize vulnerabilities of the software system. A structured attack graph is generated to include the quantified stakeholder values to define a scalable framework to evaluate attack scenarios. The structured attack graph includes two or more nodes. Based on the generated structured attack graph, structured attack paths are identified with each attack path representing each attack scenario.03-19-2009
20090075318USING PHOTO-RESPONSIVE SURFACTANTS TO REVERSIBLY CONTROL PROTEIN AGGREGATION WITH LIGHT ILLUMINATION - The present invention relates to methods of inducing protein folding using light illumination. More specifically the invention relates to shape-reconstruction analysis applied to small angle neutron scattering (SANS) data that is used to determine the structure of partially-folded proteins in non-native conformations and supramolecular complexes undergoing self- or hetero-association in solution as a result of partial unfolding with a photoresponsive surfactant.03-19-2009
20090075296METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR ASSAYING REGULATORY T CELLS - Methods and compositions for determining whether a T cell is a regulatory T cell and for determining whether a population of cells includes at least one regulatory T cell or a cell with the potential to become a regulatory T cell. The invention includes methods and compositions for detecting TGF-β on the surface of a cell. The invention also provides methods and compositions for evaluating the suppressive activity of a regulatory T cell based on the presence and/or the amount of membrane-bound TGF-β.03-19-2009
20090069246Methods for promoting hematopoietic and mesenchymal cell proliferation and differentiation - The present invention provides methods, improved cell culture medium and kits for promoting hematopoietic and mesenchymal stem and lineage-specific cell proliferation and differentiation by growth in the presence of angiotensinogen, angiotensin I (AI), AI analogues, AI fragments and analogues thereof, angiotensin II (AII), AII analogues, AII fragments or analogues thereof or AII AT03-12-2009
20090062227METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR INDUCING APOPTOSIS BY STIMULATING ER STRESS - The present invention provides a method for inducing apoptosis in selected cells by aggravating ER-stress. The aggravation of ER-stress is achieved in a specific manner by inhibiting SERCA (sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase), leading to elevated level of cytoplasmic calcium concentration, yet without inhibiting the activity of COX-2 (cyclooxygenase-2) or triggering the release of histamine. Induction of apoptosis may be enhanced by first inducing or further aggravating ER-stress through inhibition of proteasome or proteases. Also provided are compounds and compositions useful as ER-stress aggravating agents, methods for screening, selecting, identifying and designing the same and methods for treating diseased conditions by inducing apoptosis through specific and selective aggravation of ER-stress.03-05-2009
20090061514USE OF CYTOKINES AND MITOGENS TO INHIBIT GRAFT VERSUS HOST DISEASE - A method for inducing T cell tolerance in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) comprising adding a suppressive composition to said cells.03-05-2009
20090053769HETEROLOGOUS PRODUCTION OF NATURAL PRODUCTS IN BACTERIA - The present invention demonstrates an example of the de novo total biosynthesis of biologically active forms of heterologous NRPs in 02-26-2009
20090053706DNA METHYLATION MARKERS ASSOCIATED WITH THE CPG ISLAND METHYLATOR PHENOTYPE (CIMP) IN HUMAN COLORECTAL CANCER - Particular aspects confirm the existence of a CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) in colorectal cancer, and provide novel validated DNA methylation markers associated with CIMP. Additional aspects provide novel methods and compositions for: determining CIMP status in colorectal cancers, determining the relationship between CIMP status and other molecular features of the cancers (e.g., BRAF mutation, KRAS mutation and MSI status); determining the relationship between CIMP status and other variables (e.g., age, sex, tumor location, family history, race, country of origin, tumor characteristics (including, tumor type, tumor grade, invasive margin characteristics, lymphocyte infiltration characteristics, direct spread, lymph node spread, venous spread and type of residual adjacent polyp, if present)); and determining, between subgroups defined by CIMP status and BRAF mutations, effects of selected risk factors (e.g., body mass index, smoking history, alcohol intake, dietary folate intake, folate metabolic enzyme polymorphisms and history of hormonal use).02-26-2009
20090048195COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF SPHINGOSINE KINASE INHIBITORS FOR USE THEREOF IN CANCER THERAPY - The present invention relates to Sphingosine kinase inhibitors that are useful for treating various cancers. The invention specifically relates to compositions and methods of SPK inhibitors, including siRNAs, which specifically block gene expression of SPK and induce apoptosis in a variety of cancers.02-19-2009
20090047241IL-12 FACILITATES BOTH THE RECOVERY OF ENDOGENOUS HEMATOPOIESIS AND THE ENGRAFTMENT OF STEM CELLS AFTER IONIZING RADIATION - The invention provides compositions and methods for promoting the recovery of bone marrow micro-environment after disease- or treatment-induced damage.02-19-2009
20090044864ORGANIC PHOTOSENSITIVE OPTOELECTRONIC DEVICES WITH TRIPLET HARVESTING - There is disclosed an organic photosensitive optoelectronic devices comprising organic photoconductive materials, which comprise singlet fission host materials doped with triplet forming materials. There is also disclosed devices made from such materials, such as an organic photovoltaic cell, a photoconductor cell, a photodetector, organic photosensors, chemical sensors, and biological sensors. Methods of fabricating such devices are also disclosed.02-19-2009
20090043424AUTOMATED PLUMBING, WIRING, AND REINFORCEMENT - An apparatus may include a nozzle assembly configured to extrude material through an outlet; and a controllable robotic arm coupled to the nozzle assembly, the robotic arm having at one end a gripper configured to pick up an element and deposit the element at a desired position relative to the extruded material. The element may be one of: a reinforcement member for a structure being constructed; a segment of a plumbing pipe; an electric network component; and a tile.02-12-2009
20090028867Antagonists Specific For Denatured Collagen And Methods Of Using Same - The invention describes methods for inhibiting angiogenesis in a tissue by administering an antagonist that specifically binds to a proteolyzed or denatured collagen but not to native triple helical forms of the collagen. Antagonists of the invention can target, for example, denatured collagens type-I, type-II, type-III, type-IV, type-V and combinations thereof. Methods utilizing such antagonists for therapeutic treatment of tumor growth, tumor metastasis or of restenosis also are described, as are methods to use such antagonists as diagnostic markers of angiogenesis in normal or diseased tissues both in vivo and ex vivo. Antagonists include monoclonal antibodies referred to as HU177, HUIV26, and XL313.01-29-2009
20090017010NOVEL ARTEMIS/DNA-DEPENDENT PROTEIN KINASE COMPLEX AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - In the present invention, it is disclosed that Artemis forms a complex with the 469 kDa DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK01-15-2009
20090005691METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR BLOOD FLOW MEASUREMENT USING DOPPLER OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY - This invention provides methods for non-invasive, real-time measuring and/or monitoring of local blood flow in a subject. Methods of the invention generally include the steps of obtaining Doppler shift images of at least two planes intersecting blood vessels at the scanned location; determining Doppler angles using the Doppler shift images; and then using the Doppler angles thus determined together with the Doppler shift signals to arrive at a measure of the volumetric blood flow. Also provided are systems and software for performing the methods.01-01-2009
20080319679SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ANALYZING MICROARRAYS - The present invention discloses methods and systems for analyzing microarray data. The method includes the general steps of providing microarray data, normalizing the data using a least trimmed squares regression, and then analyzing the normalized microarray data to obtain a desired result such as an expression profile. There is also disclosed a method of subdividing an array into subarrays before normalization. This approach provides a method for improving measurement accuracy and salvaging array data from arrays containing minor defects. Also disclosed is a Probe-Treatment-Reference (PTR) model for streamlining normalization and summarization of microarray data by allowing multiple references. Other aspects of the present invention include computer systems and computer readable media encoding methods of the present invention.12-25-2008
20080318313Method to Prevent Graft Rejection Using TGF-Beta to Induce T Suppressor Cells - The invention relates to compositions and methods useful for preventing graft rejection in a recipient following organ transplantation.12-25-2008

Patent applications by UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA